Author: Chris Harlan
WPIAL sets covid-19 cancellation policy, won’t require vaccinations for officials
September 20, 2021
A regular-season contest canceled because of covid-19 can be declared a “no-contest” rather than a forfeit, but first the WPIAL intends to make sure teams aren’t bending the rules to avoid an opponent.
No longer Penn State-bound, Perry’s Tyreese Fearbry chooses Kentucky
September 19, 2021
Six weeks after decommiting from Penn State, Perry senior Tyreese Fearbry has a new plan for college.
Chartiers Valley cornerback Lamont Payne commits to Penn State
Chartiers Valley junior defensive back Lamont Payne committed to Penn State on Saturday while on campus to watch the Nittany Lions’ win over Auburn.
5 things we learned in Week 3 of H.S. football: Bishop Canevin joins Class A conversation
September 18, 2021
Rebuilding a football program traditionally takes playbooks and practice, but Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson added tree pruners and paint brushes to his list.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 19, 2021
Class 6A
Strong freshman class adds to lineup for defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams
When your boys and girls teams are both defending WPIAL and PIAA cross country champions, what do you do this fall for an encore?
Sto-Rox’s big-play defense steals momentum, finds end zone in win over Avonworth
Jaymar Pearson had already shed his Sto-Rox jersey in the minutes after Friday night’s win, but Avonworth’s coach recognized him even without a No. 7 on his back.
After 11 shutout quarters, Sto-Rox defense draws big test from Avonworth
September 17, 2021
The point totals on Sto-Rox’s side of the scoreboard are often eye-catching, but the numbers next to their opponent have been noteworthy as well this fall.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 3: Coaches like nonconference tune-ups
September 16, 2021
The sprint to the WPIAL playoffs starts now.
PIAA worried teams using covid-19 issues to avoid unfavorable opponents
September 15, 2021
The PIAA is worried teams may be using covid-19 issues as a way to avoid an unfavorable opponent, so the board on Wednesday debated at length a policy that would’ve made regular season cancellations forfeits.
PIAA board approves vaccine mandate for officials, doesn’t foresee shortage
The PIAA does not expect its covid-19 vaccination mandate to cause a shortage of game officials since the new policy applies only to inter-district state tournament games.
PIAA requires covid-19 vaccination for all officials working state playoffs
September 14, 2021
The PIAA will require its game officials in all sports to be fully vaccinated against covid-19 to work any state postseason contests this fall.
Nearly forced to move with NFL free agent father, Tyree Alualu excelling as North Allegheny linebacker
September 12, 2021
North Allegheny linebacker Tyree Alualu is already making an impact as a first-year starter in the middle of the Tigers defense, but the sophomore standout nearly spent this fall playing football for another high school, likely in Florida.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of H.S. football
September 11, 2021
Time inevitably erases memories from blowout games with lopsided scores, regardless of whether you’re on the winning or losing side.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 12, 2021
Class 6A
Central Valley’s Landon Alexander gets birthday wish, defeats rival Aliquippa
Landon Alexander wished for a win on his 18th birthday.
Aliquippa, Central Valley anticipate electric atmosphere as rivalry renews
September 10, 2021
The cement stands may be weathered, the grass field might be bumpy and the vintage light towers have rust, but few WPIAL football venues can match the atmosphere of a big crowd at historic Aschman Stadium in Aliquippa.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 2: Handmade schedule a hit
September 9, 2021
Man or machine?
Basketball standout Debaba Tshiebwe eligible after transfer to Central Catholic, WPIAL decides
September 8, 2021
Central Catholic transfer Debaba Tshiebwe, a basketball standout who arrived this summer from a private school in Ohio, is fully eligible for the regular season and playoffs this winter.
Ellwood City, OLSH cancel Week 2 football games
September 7, 2021
Ellwood City and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart each canceled their scheduled football games this week because of covid-related issues.
What we learned in Week 1 of H.S. football
More than two dozen WPIAL football teams are off to 2-0 starts, but the most exciting could belong to Shaler Area.
Underclassmen to play key roles for North Allegheny boys soccer
With few returning starters and a roster heavy in sophomores, North Allegheny coach Bobby Vosmaer told his boys soccer team to be ready.
Senior quarterback steps up, leads Thomas Jefferson past Gateway in battle of top-ranked teams
September 3, 2021
Quarterback was considered a big question mark for Thomas Jefferson, so coach Bill Cherpak intended to give a couple of players snaps there.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 1: Teams roll with covid cancellations
September 2, 2021
If high school football teams were hoping covid shutdowns were left behind in 2020, this week shows they’re not gone yet.
Westinghouse football game canceled because of covid case
Friday’s scheduled football game between Westinghouse and Kirtland (Ohio) will not be played because of a covid case within the City League school’s program.
Central Valley, Blackhawk left without Week 1 games after opponents cancel
September 1, 2021
In a dilemma reminiscent of last fall, Central Valley has started searching for a new opponent for Friday night’s football game.
Bishop Sycamore under scrutiny after facing Sto-Rox, IMG Academy on same weekend
August 30, 2021
Sto-Rox and Bishop Sycamore both wore black uniforms for their football game Friday at the Wolvarena, but the matching outfits weren’t the most unusual part of the weekend for the online school from Columbus, Ohio.
5 things we learned in Week Zero of H.S. football
Rather than a double-double, two-sport star Rodney Gallagher recorded a double-triple.
Big-play defense leads Sto-Rox past Bishop Sycamore at Wolvarena
Sto-Rox’s high-scoring offense will have big nights this season, there’s little doubt about that.
Philly power Imhotep Charter wears down Central Catholic with oversized offensive line
Two tight ends, a huge offensive line and a gritty running back gaining chucks of yardage at a time. This certainly was the style of offense Central Catholic usually would relish.
Central Catholic draws Philadelphia power Imhotep Charter in cross-state Week Zero clash
August 27, 2021
Finding a willing Week Zero opponent nearby isn’t always easy for Central Catholic, the two-time defending WPIAL Class 6A champion.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the biggest coaching moves for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top kickers and punters for the 2021 season.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week Zero: On opening night, teams have options
August 26, 2021
“Week Zero” is back.
WPIAL football teams welcome return to traditional ‘Friday night lights’ atmosphere
In any other year, there might have been huge crowds at Sarge Alberts Stadium to witness one of the most dominant seasons in WPIAL football history.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 25, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top safeties for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
August 24, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top linebackers for the 2021 season.
2021 WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Pine-Richland saga headlines offseason of change
The defending champion has a new coach. The preseason favorite has a new quarterback. The runner-up from last season has a whole lot of new faces.
WPIAL football finals to be played over 2 days at Heinz Field
August 23, 2021
For the first time, the WPIAL football championships will be a two-day event at Heinz Field this fall.
Aliquippa keeps punching above its weight … and winning
Because Aliquippa reached the WPIAL Class 4A finals last fall, coach Mike Warfield worries that achievement will overshadow one harsh reality.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 22, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 21, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 20, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top tight ends for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 19, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top wide receivers for the 2021 season.
After offseason upheaval, Pine-Richland has something to prove
Pine-Richland is a defending WPIAL and PIAA champion, but the Rams aren’t focused on last year. At this point, that undefeated season seems long ago.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 18, 2021
Starting this week, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2021 season.
Gateway gladly wears bull’s-eye in WPIAL Class 5A
On paper, Gateway certainly has the look of a WPIAL contender.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 17, 2021
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2021 season.
Like rivals, Upper St. Clair turns to new nucleus
Upper St. Clair’s conference was among the WPIAL’s deepest in recent years with senior-heavy rosters full of experience becoming the norm in the South Hills.
Peters Township seniors hungry for bigger roles
When Peters Township snaps the football on opening night, returning center Anthony Brunette will be the lineman over the ball.
After state championship blockbuster, Central Valley working on encore
August 14, 2021
The big question facing Central Valley this fall is: How do you top last season?
U.S.-Canada border policy impacts Week Zero schedule for Upper St. Clair, Greensburg Central Catholic
August 13, 2021
In any other year, facing an international opponent would bring some excitement to Week Zero of football season.
Culture change takes root under Bob Palko at Mt. Lebanon
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
North Allegheny flying under Class 6A radar
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
Chartiers Valley’s Marian Turnbull commits to Northeastern
August 10, 2021
The record-setting Chartiers Valley girls team now has five rising seniors all committed to play basketball in college with three headed to Division I schools.
Mike Tomlin refutes report saying Steelers receiver James Washington wants traded
August 7, 2021
Despite a report saying James Washington was unhappy with his role and wanted to be traded, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he hasn’t heard those words from the fourth-year receiver.
North Allegheny AD Bozzuto pitches regular season baseball tournaments in PIAA board debut
High school baseball players can play dozens and dozens of AAU games each summer, at times more than one per day and often multiple days in a row.
Rick Meister, championship-winning softball coach at North Allegheny, dies
Former North Allegheny softball coach Rick Meister, who led the Tigers to both WPIAL and PIAA gold, has died. He was 73.
Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich follows family tradition, commits to Navy
August 6, 2021
Eli Heidenreich’s college choice involved more than deciding where he’d spend the next four or five years of his life. The Mt. Lebanon senior, whose grandfather and uncle both served in the Navy, followed a similar path and committed this week to play football for the Naval Academy.
WPIAL requests eligibility hearings for New Castle, Bishop Canevin transfers
August 4, 2021
The WPIAL will schedule an eligibility hearing for New Castle transfer DaJaun Young, a double-digit scorer for Kennedy Catholic’s boys basketball team last winter.
North Allegheny catcher Aaron Posey commits to Division I Kennesaw State
July 31, 2021
As a catcher named Posey who wears No. 28, North Allegheny’s Aaron Posey sometimes jokes that he’s related to a National League MVP.
With camps, college visits back, TribLive HSSN Preseason All-Stars are busy this summer
July 22, 2021
As Josh Jenkins walked into Kennywood Park, passing the merry-go-round and the Sky Rocket, the Sto-Rox quarterback marveled at just how much life has improved in a year.
WPIAL adds board of directors seat exclusively for private schools
July 19, 2021
Private schools in the WPIAL soon will have their own seat on the board.
WPIAL football championships will return to Heinz Field this fall — maybe over 2 days
The WPIAL football championships are returning to Heinz Field this fall, maybe for a two-day affair Thanksgiving weekend at the North Shore stadium.
State champion wrestler, City League great Godwin Nyama Cutler dies at 27
July 18, 2021
Former state wrestling champion Godwin Nyama Cutler, an all-time City League great who won the league its first PIAA title less than a decade ago, has died. He was 27.
Miller, Meister headline North Allegheny Hall of Fame class
July 16, 2021
Championship-winning coaches Heidi Miller and Rick Meister were among 18 inductees chosen to enter the North Allegheny Hall of Fame this year.
PIAA makes change to state basketball tournament, anticipates ‘normal’ fall
July 14, 2021
The state basketball tournament will start a little earlier this winter under a schedule change that makes cross-state travel easier for the semifinals and finals.
Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer wins titles in 2 sports
July 12, 2021
Early in the winter, Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer called his future college wrestling coach with some bad news. He’d injured his left shoulder and would eventually need surgery to repair a torn labrum.
A year like no other: The top stories of the 2020-21 school year in WPIAL sports
July 10, 2021
8.21.20
Record-setting quarterback Johnny DiNapoli leaving East Allegheny
July 9, 2021
Johnny DiNapoli, who set a WPIAL passing record two years ago, has transferred this summer from East Allegheny to Elizabeth Forward.
Seton LaSalle baseball standout, coach’s son Brett Wagner transferring to IMG Academy
July 8, 2021
Seton LaSalle baseball coach Mike Wagner is losing his favorite player to IMG Academy in Florida, but he’s 100% on board with the kid’s decision.
North Allegheny’s Cole Young picked for all-star baseball game at Coors Field
North Allegheny shortstop Cole Young, who could be a future MLB Draft pick, is headed to the site of this year’s baseball all-star game.
Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Sean FitzSimmons
July 4, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Trib HSSN Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification
July 3, 2021
Whether their school had students in the classroom or virtually this spring, there is a special seat up front reserved for these standout performers and coaches in the return to the baseball field.
Kathy McConnell-Miller leaves Trinity bench for college basketball job
July 2, 2021
Kathy McConnell-Miller is returning to the college coaching ranks after two seasons with the Trinity girls basketball team.
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons nominated for NFL high school coach of the year
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons was among 32 nominees announced Thursday for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.
2021 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Eric Chalus, Bethel Park
2021 HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
Week Zero football showcase returns to Wolvarena in August
July 1, 2021
Week Zero is back on the football schedule this fall, and with it returns the Western Pa. vs. Everyone football showcase hosted by Woodland Hills.
Butler basketball’s Devin Carney commits to Elon
One of college basketball’s stingiest defenses added some scoring power Thursday when Butler’s Devin Carney committed to Elon.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Patrick Body, Gateway
June 28, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Moon lineman Trent Fraley commits to Marshall
June 27, 2021
Moon’s Trent Fraley, the son of a former NFL lineman, announced his commitment Sunday to Marshall.
WPIAL, PIAA champions among 2021 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
Among the six teams crowned WPIAL baseball champions this spring, their individual stories varied greatly.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Brad Birch, Gateway
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Landon Alexander, Central Valley
June 26, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny baseball appreciates contribution of seniors, looks to bright future
June 25, 2021
North Allegheny’s Cole Young shared hugs and handshakes with teammates near the first base dugout at Penn State’s baseball field, season-ending thank yous to the seniors whose high school careers were ending there.
La Salle College starter shuts down North Allegheny in Class 6A finals
June 18, 2021
Sometimes, it’s not a pitcher’s fastball velocity that makes him unhittable. La Salle College starter Ryan Marler proved that true Friday night.
Shenango’s rally falls 1 run short in PIAA Class 2A championship
UNIVERSITY PARK – At 67, Shenango coach Larry Kelly was four years younger than his state championship counterpart in the other dugout Friday.
Facing 1-year suspension, Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz resigns
June 17, 2021
Suspended football coach Mauro Monz, facing a one-year ban from the WPIAL over recruiting allegations, said he’s resigning at Seton LaSalle rather than continue to appeal.
Clutch pitching carries Bethel Park past star-studded Red Land to PIAA baseball title
UNIVERSITY PARK — Red Land has a future MLB first-rounder batting leadoff and some ex-Little League World Series stars behind him. So, Bethel Park staked its title hopes on an old adage that good pitching beats good hitting.
Slow start dooms Eden Christian baseball in 1st PIAA finals appearance
UNIVERSITY PARK — As a first-time state finalist, Eden Christian will remember Thursday’s game for years to come, even if they’d like to forget the first two innings.
Future 1st-round MLB Draft pick awaits Bethel Park in PIAA final vs. Red Land
June 16, 2021
At around 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Bethel Park pitcher Eric Chalus will take the mound for the PIAA Class 5A championship at Penn State’s Medlar Field and face Red Land’s leadoff hitter.
Seneca Valley adds former Pine-Richland football assistants Lehmeier, Sasson
Assistant football coaches Tim Sasson and Ryan Lehmeier were left searching for new jobs when their time together at Pine-Richland abruptly ended. So, they offered themselves as a packaged deal to any school needing an offensive line coach and an offensive coordinator.
Butler tight end Charlie Kreinbucher commits to Akron
June 15, 2021
The Butler football program has struggled in recent years, but the Golden Tornado has a Division I talent in rising senior Charlie Kreinbucher.
WPIAL upholds suspensions of Seton LaSalle football coaches
June 14, 2021
The WPIAL heard additional evidence about Seton LaSalle’s suspended football coaches during a lengthy hearing Monday but ultimately reached the same decision.
Anthony Miller’s 12 Ks lead New Castle to 1st appearance in state baseball finals
Maybe the big-game atmosphere had Anthony Miller feeling ready, seeing hundreds of New Castle fans filter into Neshannock’s baseball field. Maybe it was the fact his Red Hurricanes were one win away from the state finals.
Where is Eden Christian? Baseball team puts school on map with PIAA playoff run
June 13, 2021
In his 15 years as a teacher, administrator and now baseball coach at the school, Steve Good is often asked: Where is Eden Christian?
PIAA reveals sites, times for state baseball semifinals
June 11, 2021
The WPIAL is guaranteed to have at least two teams in the state baseball finals and could have as many as five.
Semifinal sites, times announced for PIAA softball playoffs
The PIAA softball semifinals will feature a pair of WPIAL championship rematches Monday at Mars.
Montour shuts out Cathedral Prep, earns semifinal rematch against New Castle
June 10, 2021
Before Montour pitcher Dylan Mathiesen took the mound for the 12th time this season, his coaches wondered if the right-hander might be tiring a little. His previous outing came in the WPIAL finals, and Mathiesen’s stuff that day maybe wasn’t his sharpest.
On the clock: PIAA will discuss basketball shot clock in months ahead
June 9, 2021
Will Pennsylvania high school basketball have a shot clock in 2022?
Penn State will allow full capacity for PIAA baseball, softball championships
Penn State will allow full capacity at its baseball and softball stadiums for the upcoming PIAA championships, alleviating worries the softball finals might need to be moved.
WPIAL approves 3 Seton LaSalle transfers, Jackson Pons’ return to Norwin
June 8, 2021
Mauro Monz’s status as Seton LaSalle coach remains in doubt, but the WPIAL ruled his son eligible to play football for the Rebels this fall.
Softball playoff sites, times set for PIAA quarterfinals
Norwin will host an all-WPIAL doubleheader Thursday in the state softball quarterfinals.
PIAA reveals quarterfinal sites, times for state baseball playoffs
PIAA baseball quarterfinalists learned Tuesday where they’re playing next.
Serra Catholic naming court after longtime girls basketball coach Bill Cleary
June 4, 2021
Serra Catholic is naming its basketball court after longtime girls coach Bill Cleary, the school announced Friday.
Central Catholic defensive tackle Donovan Hinish commits to Notre Dame
Notre Dame bought billboard space around Pittsburgh this spring, touting the many Western Pennsylvania football players who’ve joined the Fighting Irish in recent years.
Sites, times announced for PIAA 1st-round softball playoff games
The six WPIAL softball champions will start their state tournament runs at Norwin, Peterswood Park or North Allegheny next week.
PIAA reveals 1st-round sites, times for state baseball playoffs
The PIAA on Friday released sites and times for next week’s first-round games in the state baseball playoffs.
New Pine-Richland football coach predicts ‘smooth transition’ after meeting players
There were some sleepless nights this week for Steve Campos as Pine-Richland was about to make him the school’s new football coach. But after meeting with the players for the first time Thursday afternoon, Campos predicted he’d sleep soundly later that night.
Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey leaving WPIAL for Chambersburg job
June 3, 2021
Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey has always wanted to chat with the PIAA leadership about its transfer rule. He’ll soon be working almost in their backyard, once he becomes athletic director at Chambersburg, so maybe he’ll knock on their door.
New Castle’s Rocco Bernadina mows down Montour in WPIAL Class 4A championship
June 2, 2021
New Castle owns the most boys basketball titles in WPIAL history, and the football team ranks third on the league’s all-time championships list.
PIAA rules Gateway QB Brad Birch eligible, returns Seton LaSalle appeal to WPIAL
The PIAA overturned one WPIAL decision and told the WPIAL board to reconsider another.
North Allegheny ace shuts down Hempfield, leads Tigers to record 8th WPIAL title
June 1, 2021
Hempfield got an early look at right-hander Kyle Demi a few weekends ago, but that sneak peek at the North Allegheny ace didn’t help much Tuesday night.
Seneca Valley assistant could be Pine-Richland’s next coach, source says
Steve Campos, an assistant football coach at Seneca Valley, is expected to be the recommended candidate to fill the vacant head coach job at Pine-Richland, according to a source.
South Fayette’s Amy Allen claims 4 PIAA medals, wins gold with 400-meter relay
May 29, 2021
SHIPPENSBURG — When Amy Allen qualified for states as a sophomore, she ran one event and went home.
Plum’s Parker medals in shot put at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Plum thrower Logan Parker returned Saturday to Seth Grove Stadium and felt right at home.
West Mifflin’s Dontae Lewis celebrates 300 hurdles title on future college track
SHIPPENSBURG — While his competitors endured the cold rain and wind inside Seth Grove Stadium, West Mifflin hurdler Dontae Lewis found a way to escape.
Beaver’s Emma Pavelek earns PIAA high jump silver wearing borrowed shoes
SHIPPENSBURG — Emma Pavelek didn’t walk a mile in someone else’s shoes but she did high jump in someone else’s sneakers.
Quaker Valley’s Nora Johns wins state gold in 1st year running 300 hurdles
SHIPPENSBURG — Nora Johns ran the 300 hurdles for the first time this spring, and the Quaker Valley sophomore can remember the thoughts running through her head at the time.
Gallon thrives in cleanup role for North Allegheny
Batting cleanup comes with added responsibility in any baseball lineup, but there’s a little extra burden for North Allegheny’s No. 4 hitter.
North Catholic sprinter Trevor Paschall wins 1st PIAA gold in 200, silver in 400
SHIPPENSBURG — Trevor Paschall’s state championship meet wasn’t going quite how he’d imagined.
Waynesburg’s Taylor Shriver clears 13 feet, wins long-awaited PIAA pole vault title
SHIPPENSBURG — Waynesburg pole vaulter Taylor Shriver needed three tries to clear her first bar at the state championships, an 11-foot jump that’s normally routine for the senior.
Thoughts of hospitalized teammate carry Aliquippa relay team to 5th-place finish
May 28, 2021
SHIPPENSBURG — He should have been here, said the four sprinters on Aliquippa’s relay team, whose thoughts were with their fifth teammate, hospitalized in Pittsburgh.
Shady Side Academy’s Melissa Riggins joins elite list with 6 PIAA gold medals
SHIPPENSBURG — Matching the speed she showed circling the track, the public address announcer at Seth Grove Stadium declared Melissa Riggins a three-time state champion in the 1,600 meters as soon as she crossed the finish line.
Patience pays off in PIAA gold for Deer Lakes runner Carson McCoy
SHIPPENSBURG — In hindsight, Carson McCoy decided he probably made his move too early at the WPIAL championship, ultimately finishing second.
Aliquippa to compete at state track meet with teammate, critically injured in shooting, in thoughts
May 27, 2021
Aliquippa’s track team arrived Thursday in Shippensburg, a day ahead of the state championships, but the Quips made the trip with one fewer sprinter than they’d hoped.
PIAA might seek alternate site for softball championships at Penn State
May 26, 2021
The state softball championships are scheduled for next month at Penn State, but there’s a chance the PIAA will need to find an alternate site.
WPIAL reveals championship schedule for baseball finals
The WPIAL baseball finalists in Class 6A and 4A will play under the lights at Wild Things Park next week.
Bethel Park’s walk-off win caps fierce pitchers’ duel with West Allegheny
May 25, 2021
Bethel Park’s Zack Sackett stood in the first-base dugout at Matulevic Field and watched two of the WPIAL’s gutsiest pitchers duel for 41 outs Tuesday without allowing a run.
North Allegheny returns to WPIAL finals after 10-run win over Butler
North Allegheny’s Joe Manesiotis surely was a little surprised when Butler intentionally walked the batter ahead of him to load the bases.
Montour celebrates 1-run win over Quaker Valley in WPIAL 4A quarterfinals
May 24, 2021
With two runners on, no outs and trailing by a run, Montour’s Mason Sike was told to be ready to lay down a bunt.
Rain alters WPIAL baseball, softball playoff schedules Monday
Rain forced the WPIAL to revamp Monday’s playoff schedules for baseball and softball, moving some games to new sites and postponing others to Tuesday.
‘Revitalized’ Gary Goga hired as Keystone Oaks boys basketball coach
Boys basketball coach Gary Goga, who built Peters Township into a WPIAL championship program in his 15 seasons there, is ready for another challenge.
‘It was meant to be,’ says new Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Eugene Wilson
A few weeks after its coach resigned midseason, the Woodland Hills boys basketball team made a trip to Ringgold for a nonsection game this past winter.
Quick corrections lead North Allegheny’s Taylor to WPIAL triple jump title
May 22, 2021
There’s plenty about junior Dwayne Taylor that impresses North Allegheny’s track and field coaches: He’s 6-foot-5 with long limbs and the speed of a sprinter.
Sophomore’s clutch hit carries Bethel Park past Shaler into Class 5A baseball semifinals
May 21, 2021
Some might consider Bethel Park sophomore John Chalus the little brother of a Division I baseball recruit, but he certainly wasn’t overshadowed Friday.
‘Perfect timing’ leads Dave DeGregorio back to North Allegheny as boys basketball coach
May 20, 2021
When Dave DeGregorio resigned at North Allegheny five years ago to coach his sons, a part of him thought he might return someday, if the timing was right.
Fantastic 400 finish between Hampton’s Galuska, Butler’s Brown headlines WPIAL Class AAA meet
May 19, 2021
Hampton sprinter Gage Galuska threw his body forward at the finish line, tumbled into a somersault and stayed on the track waiting for his 400-meter time to show on the scoreboard.
WPIAL track and field championships: What to know for Wednesday’s meet
The WPIAL endured a season without track and field last spring, but the championships are back. Individual champions in Class AAA and AA will be crowned Wednesday at Slippery Rock University.
After adding 2-game series to regular season, what’s next for WPIAL baseball?
May 17, 2021
The WPIAL baseball committee’s philosophy is simple: The best team should win section titles and league championships, not the team with one incredibly dominant pitcher.
Mask policies for spectators will vary at WPIAL postseason events
Spectators will be asked to wear masks Wednesday at the WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock University despite the recent change to the statewide mandate.
North Allegheny ready to rehire Dave DeGregorio as boys basketball coach
May 15, 2021
North Allegheny’s next boys basketball coach already knows the program well.
North Allegheny girls pleased with runner-up finish at WPIAL team championships
Only a handful of schools reach the WPIAL team track championships each year, but the meet has become almost an annual tradition for the North Allegheny girls.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2021 baseball playoffs
After enduring a year with no baseball, the WPIAL playoffs are back.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take an early look at baseball playoff pairings
The real brackets for the 2021 WPIAL baseball playoff will be revealed at 3 p.m. Friday on TribLive HSSN.
Butler boys, girls dominate at WPIAL Class AAA team finals
May 12, 2021
As Butler runner C.J. Singleton neared the finish line, the junior wondered how close his nearest 800-meter challenger was, so he took a quick glance behind him.
WPIAL reveals updated postseason plans for spring sports playoffs
May 10, 2021
If covid-related cancellations leave section standings unsettled, the WPIAL will have its steering committees determine which teams make the playoffs this spring.
A year after high jumping at home, Beaver’s Emma Pavelek worried another season was doomed
May 9, 2021
Emma Pavelek had never been to a chiropractor before this past week and was skeptical one could help her painful foot. She’d been diagnosed with a sprain but after five weeks, her injury wasn’t getting any better.
Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins wins twice at Baldwin Invite despite facing ‘worst wind’
May 8, 2021
The weather app on Melissa Riggins’ smartphone misled her a little.
WPIAL softball rankings | May 8, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL baseball rankings | May 8, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Akindele among WPIAL’s top sprinters
When North Allegheny sprinter Lola Akindele broke the 60-second barrier in the 400 meters, she was elated.
North Journal notebook: North Allegheny’s Morningstar named Gatorade Player of the Year
North Allegheny senior Paige Morningstar was named the state’s Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year after leading the Tigers to a fourth consecutive PIAA title last fall.
West Mifflin senior, PIAA favorite Dontae Lewis sweeps hurdles at Baldwin Invitational
May 7, 2021
Some hurdlers have tunnel vision on the track, focused solely on their lane and uninterested in their competitors.
North Allegheny’s Paige Morningstar named state’s Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year
May 6, 2021
Six years after her sister won the award, North Allegheny senior Paige Morningstar was named the state’s Gatorade Pa. Volleyball Player of the Year.
WPIAL has big decisions to make this week about baseball, softball playoffs
May 4, 2021
Will higher-seeded baseball and softball teams host playoff games this spring or could the WPIAL use neutral sites as usual?
WPIAL rules 1 Birch brother eligible, other brother ineligible after hearing
May 3, 2021
The WPIAL handed Gateway transfers Brett and Brad Birch a good-news, bad-news scenario.
Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz apologizes to Pine-Richland administrators in letter
In a letter asking to be rehired, ousted football coach Eric Kasperowicz apologized to Pine-Richland’s school board and administration for his “attitude and behavior” during a contentious late-March interview.
WPIAL sees 2 players make Class 6A boys basketball all-state team
May 1, 2021
Butler’s Devin Carney and Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan earned all-state honors Saturday when the Pa. Sports Writers All-State Team for Class 6A boys basketball was announced.
WPIAL softball rankings | May 1, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL baseball rankings | May 1, 2021
Class 6A
North Hills’ Robert Dickerson has aspirations of football/baseball career in college
As a two-sport star who hits home runs and scores touchdowns, North Hills’ Robert Dickerson hears the occasional Kyler Murray reference. Older generations go to Deion Sanders or Bo Jackson as their football-baseball icon.
4 WPIAL boys basketball players make Class 5A all-state team
April 30, 2021
Chartiers Valley senior Brayden Reynolds and Laurel Highlands sophomore Rodney Gallagher earned first-team honors when the Pa. Sports Writers All-State Team for Class 5A boys basketball was announced Friday.
Before becoming NFL Draft star, Kyle Pitts clashed with WPIAL champion in Hershey
April 29, 2021
If tight end Kyle Pitts is the first non-quarterback selected Thursday night in the NFL Draft, Gateway football coach Don Holl won’t be surprised.
4 WPIAL boys basketball players earn all-state honors in Class 4A
Lincoln Park senior Dakari Bradford and North Catholic senior Andrew Ammerman, whose teams clashed last month in the WPIAL finals, were among four WPIAL boys basketball players earning all-state honors Thursday in Class 4A.
Washington softball forfeits remaining games, hopes for better seasons ahead
Washington hopes to build up its softball program in years to come, athletic director Mike Bosnic said Thursday, but this spring’s season will end after only one game.
Serra Catholic hires Matt Bacco as girls basketball coach
Serra Catholic has a new girls basketball coach for the first time in years.
State’s all-time winningest boys basketball coach earns all-state honor in 3A
April 28, 2021
Weeks after winning a boys basketball state title, Loyalsock also dominated the all-state team for PIAA Class 3A.
Undefeated OLSH tops Class 2A boys basketball all-state team
April 27, 2021
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s perfect season just keeps getting a little better.
6 WPIAL players chosen for Class A all-state boys basketball team
April 26, 2021
Six weeks after Bishop Canevin’s Dom Elliot and Kevaughn Price shared a championship court with Rochester’s Devon Hemer and JD Azulay, the four WPIAL Class A finalists are together again.
Lizzy Groetsch, Aislin Malcolm among 20 WPIAL girls basketball players named all-state
North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm each added another statewide honor to their resumes.
All-state boys basketball teams revealed this week starting with non-PIAA schools
April 25, 2021
The all-state boys basketball teams will be announced over a seven-day span starting today with players from non-PIAA member schools. In years past, all-state organizers added those athletes to the PIAA classification teams but split them into their own group this winter.
WPIAL Baseball Rankings: April 24, 2021
Class 6A
North Journal notebook: North Allegheny doubles team claims section title
After winning a section singles title earlier this month, North Allegheny’s Chase Davidson doubled his medal haul April 21 when he teamed up with Shomik Telang to win a Section 2-AAA doubles crown.
Seton LaSalle appeals football coaches’ suspensions to PIAA
April 23, 2021
Seton LaSalle has appealed to the PIAA to overturn discipline handed down by the WPIAL for recruiting violations.
Pine-Richland cites ‘pattern of hazing, intimidation’ in letter firing coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 22, 2021
Ousted football coach Eric Kasperowicz “expressed minimal concern for hazing or empathy for the students” during a 2½-hour interview with Pine-Richland administrators in late-March, according to a letter the school district sent him cutting ties.
Neil Walker hopes Pine-Richland avoids ‘huge black eye’ from football coach controversy
April 21, 2021
Retiring pro baseball player Neil Walker, one of Pine-Richland’s most famous alums, hopes the controversial ouster of the school’s football coach doesn’t become “a huge black eye” for the community.
North Allegheny tops Mt. Lebanon, celebrates back-to-back Penguins Cup titles
April 20, 2021
North Allegheny goalie Josh Bailey didn’t mince words Monday night. The second period, when he was peppered with 20 shots and the puck stayed trapped inside NA’s blue line, was bad.
WPIAL grants eligibility to pair of football players
April 19, 2021
The WPIAL granted eligibility to Central Catholic’s Jayden Thrift and McKeesport’s Jake Miller, two football players who switched schools this winter.
Fired football coach Eric Kasperowicz reaches out to Pine-Richland to ‘come to a resolution’
With students, parents and community members demanding Pine-Richland rehire Eric Kasperowicz, the ousted football coach has asked school administrators to meet with him and “come to a resolution quickly.”
Urged not to apply at Pine-Richland, coaches statewide pledge support for ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 18, 2021
Dozens of high school football coaches statewide have used social media to announce their support for coach Eric Kasperowicz and his assistants, who were fired at Pine-Richland on Wednesday.
Trib HSSN Baseball Rankings: April 17, 2021
Class 6A
Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz reapplies to lead Pine-Richland football team
April 16, 2021
Pine-Richland already has at least one applicant to coach the football team next fall, and it’s someone who knows the program very well.
Cowboys QB Ben DiNucci supports Eric Kasperowicz after coach’s surprise firing at Pine-Richland
Ben DiNucci lives 1,200 miles from Pine-Richland but was stunned when word reached him in Texas that his high school football coach had been fired.
Football coach Eric Kasperowicz: ‘No bullying or hazing took place’ at Pine-Richland
April 15, 2021
A day after being fired, former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz pushed back against any allegation of hazing or bullying in his program, while his assistants described a toxic relationship with the school’s administration.
WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes, cancels luncheon
The WPIAL/James Collins Scholar-Athlete Program luncheon was canceled again this spring because of the pandemic, but the $1,000 scholarships will be awarded as planned.
Pine-Richland fires football coach Eric Kasperowicz 5 months after winning state title
April 14, 2021
In the span of eight years, Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz built the Rams into one of the WPIAL’s best programs with four WPIAL championships and two state titles.
WPIAL approves spring championship sites, adopts split schedule for individual track meet
The WPIAL individual track and field championships will be run midweek this spring and have a split schedule, with Class 2A starting first and 3A later in the day.
WPIAL rules Birch brothers ineligible after transfer from Jeannette to Gateway
Two high-profile transfers now are in limbo.
Butler’s Devin Carney adds scholarship offer from Duquesne basketball
April 13, 2021
If Butler’s Devin Carney wants to stay home for college, he now has another Division I option.
Pitt, Penn State offer Chartiers Valley’s Lamont Payne after pressure-packed sophomore year
April 12, 2021
On one side of the field, Chartiers Valley had a senior three-year starter at cornerback. On the other side was sophomore Lamont Payne.
WPIAL to finalize spring championship sites, plans return to familiar venues
The WPIAL will finalize its championship sites for spring sports when the board meets Wednesday.
PIAA basketball committee wants state semifinals on weekend, not weekday
April 11, 2021
The state basketball tournament might begin a few days earlier next winter, if the PIAA basketball committee gets its wish.
North Allegheny’s talented lineup, rotation aims to ‘prove something’
In a way, pitcher Kyle Demi personifies North Allegheny’s mindset this season. He’s a big right-hander with a fastball that can reach 90 mph, but most folks around the WPIAL haven’t seen him throw it.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 10, 2021
Class 6A
PIAA won’t offer opinion on transgender legislation before reading proposal
April 9, 2021
The PIAA won’t offer an opinion on proposed legislation barring transgender athletes from girls sports before reading the bill, executive director Bob Lombardi said.
Moon’s Mia Cochran named state’s top girls cross country runner by Gatorade
April 8, 2021
Moon’s Mia Cochran was named as the state’s Gatorade Cross Country Player of the Year on Thursday, making her only the second WPIAL runner to win the award.
PIAA cuts state track championships to 1-day meets but won’t reduce qualifiers
April 7, 2021
The PIAA track and field championships are being condensed to one-day meets this spring, but they’ll include the same number of qualifiers as usual.
OLSH’s DiMichele, Spadafora named Trib HSSN Boys Basketball Players of the Year
April 6, 2021
Jake DiMichele and Dante Spadafora were the perfect combination this winter, but the Our Lady of the Sacred Heart basketball teammates weren’t always fast friends.
Large, diverse list of candidates seeks WPIAL board of directors seat
April 5, 2021
This year’s ballot for electing new WPIAL board members has the largest and most diverse list of candidates in recent memory, executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Big 33 Football Classic down to 13 WPIAL players for May all-star game
April 4, 2021
The Big 33 Football Classic is down to 13 WPIAL athletes for this year’s game after a sixth player withdrew.
2021 Trib 10 Boys Basketball All-Stars
This year’s Trib 10 boys basketball all-star team could look a lot like next year’s team.
2021 Trib 10 Girls Basketball All-Stars
This year’s Trib 10 girls basketball all-star team has an impressive collection of medals.
Seton LaSalle coaches Mauro Monz, Jason Pinkston suspended 1 year by WPIAL
March 31, 2021
Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz and assistant Jason Pinkston are suspended from coaching any PIAA-affiliated team for one year, the WPIAL announced Wednesday.
Seton LaSalle football coaches face possible suspension following WPIAL hearing
March 30, 2021
Administrators from four school districts raised recruiting allegations Tuesday against Seton LaSalle’s football coaches during a lengthy closed-door hearing with the WPIAL, a situation unprecedented in recent memory, WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Chartiers Valley held to 27 points in PIAA championship loss to Cardinal O’Hara
March 27, 2021
HERSHEY — On film, Cardinal O’Hara looked big, strong and physical to Chartiers Valley coach Tim McConnell, so his Colts weren’t surprised by what they ran into at Giant Center.
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Cardinal O’Hara
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship
North Allegheny girls celebrate 1st PIAA title, top Spring-Ford in state finals
March 26, 2021
HERSHEY — North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Paige Morningstar were together at Giant Center four years ago when the Tigers last reached the state finals, and they talked then about someday winning a title.
OLSH joins elite list as undefeated PIAA boys basketball champion
HERSHEY — For Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, this was the perfect ending.
Mohawk basketball seniors find ‘closure’ despite PIAA championship loss
March 25, 2021
HERSHEY — The PIAA eliminated its on-court medal ceremonies this winter, so Mohawk basketball coach Mike O’Lare awarded them in the team’s makeshift locker room.
Neshannock girls fall in PIAA basketball finals, plan return trip to Hershey
HERSHEY — Neshannock’s first visit to the state finals ended with silver medals and a runner-up trophy, but before the Lancers left Giant Center, they were already making plans for a return trip.
Constitution will play OLSH in state finals after negative covid tests
HERSHEY — The Our Lady of the Sacred Heart boys basketball team will have an opponent for the state championships.
PIAA favors full playoff brackets for spring sports ‘if possible’
March 24, 2021
If the PIAA gets its wish, spring sports will have full state playoff brackets this season rather than the smaller champions-only format used in the fall and winter.
Short-handed Upper St. Clair falls in state semifinals to Reading
March 23, 2021
ALTOONA — There was no short-handed win for Upper St. Clair this time, no sequel to the team’s six-man celebration from a few days ago.
WPIAL to investigate recruiting allegations against Seton LaSalle football
The WPIAL has scheduled a hearing to address recruiting allegations raised by other schools against Seton LaSalle’s football coaching staff.
Foul trouble dooms Lincoln Park in PIAA semifinal loss to Hickory
March 22, 2021
Twenty-eight times Lincoln Park was whistled for a foul Monday night, yet it wasn’t so much how they fouled but rather who.
Short-handed Upper St. Clair wins PIAA quarterfinal with 6 players, volunteer coach
March 20, 2021
Screenwriters might not turn the “Upper St. Clair Six” into a movie, but their improbable story has every element for a covid-era drama about high school basketball.
New Castle loses late lead, falls to Cathedral Prep in overtime
March 19, 2021
For New Castle, the fourth quarter ticked away too slowly and overtime went by too fast.
Winning basketball titles runs in Lincoln Park freshman Brandin Cummings’ family
Comparisons to older brother Nelly are harder to shake than any lockdown defender, and Lincoln Park freshman Brandin Cummings just added another item in common.
Dan DeRose makes ‘tough decision,’ resigns as North Allegheny boys basketball coach
March 17, 2021
Calling it “a very tough decision,” Dan DeRose resigned Wednesday night after one season as boys basketball coach at North Allegheny.
Covid-19 concerns won’t keep Upper St. Clair boys out of PIAA basketball playoffs
Upper St. Clair’s boys basketball team has at least six healthy players, so the Panthers will compete Saturday in the PIAA playoffs as scheduled.
Lincoln Park tops North Catholic, avenges last season’s WPIAL championship loss
March 15, 2021
Dakari Bradford never forgot the emotions he saw in Lincoln Park’s locker room last winter, especially the sadness from the seniors playing their final WPIAL championship.
Upper St. Clair boys basketball quarantines after covid case, state playoffs in question
Three days after winning a WPIAL title, Upper St. Clair’s boys basketball season could be in jeopardy.
WPIAL notebook: League won’t face financial loss from winter sports
The WPIAL lost around $28,000 by holding its swimming championships with no spectators, but the league expects to break even once all winter sport revenues are counted.
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Lincoln Park
March 14, 2021
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship
New Castle tops Chartiers Valley for record 14th WPIAL basketball title
March 13, 2021
New Castle’s Sheldon Cox wasn’t the senior who had everyone’s attention entering Saturday night. But by the time Cox threw down two dunks in the final seconds, all eyes were on him and his record-setting Red Hurricanes.
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. New Castle
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship
Upper St. Clair tops Pine-Richland, celebrates 1st WPIAL title since ’05
March 12, 2021
There were moments when Danny Holzer could’ve worried in the fourth quarter, probably should’ve been worried, but Upper St. Clair’s longtime coach insists he wasn’t.
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Pine-Richland
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Bishop Canevin vs. Rochester
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship
Lincoln Park bests Midland’s streak with 6th consecutive WPIAL finals appearance
March 11, 2021
Blue and gold banners hang in Lincoln Park’s gym to celebrate the great Midland teams from past decades but the new-era Leopards just one-upped their old-school counterparts.
New Castle tops Laurel Highlands, reaches 7th WPIAL finals in 10 years
March 10, 2021
Six times in the past decade already, New Castle had reached the WPIAL finals behind a frenzied press defense that’s become a hallmark of the program.
Allderdice boys excluded from City League basketball finals but season isn’t over
The City League boys basketball championship will move forward without Allderdice but the team’s season isn’t over.
Upper St. Clair finally solves Butler, earns 1st WPIAL finals appearance since ’05
March 9, 2021
Upper St. Clair lost twice to Butler in last year’s basketball playoffs, heart-wrenching losses that senior Luke Banbury recalls a little differently than his USC teammates.
Owen DeGregorio makes 7 3-pointers as North Catholic returns to WPIAL semifinals
March 8, 2021
North Catholic’s Owen DeGregorio took advantage of Monday’s mild weather to put up some shots with his dad on their outdoor hoop.
4 WPIAL players withdraw from Big 33 Football Classic
March 7, 2021
Four WPIAL football players picked for the Big 33 Football Classic won’t take part because of college obligations, organizers for the high school all-star game announced.
Mars scores 24 consecutive points in WPIAL 5A quarterfinal win over Trinity
March 6, 2021
Zac Schlegel and his Mars teammates were reluctant to see the second quarter clock reach zeroes Saturday.
North Allegheny, Peters Township will host WPIAL basketball championships
North Allegheny and Peters Township, two of the area’s larger high school gyms, are expected to host all 12 WPIAL basketball championship games.
Union confusion leads Imani Christian basketball team on ride to wrong school
Sixty miles separate the Union Area High School near New Castle from Union High School in Rimersburg, but the districts with matching names continue to cause trouble for bus drivers.
Devin Carney’s buzzer-beating 3 lifts Butler past Penn-Trafford in OT
March 5, 2021
Ten times Butler’s Devin Carney had taken a shot from behind the arc Friday night and nine of them had missed. In fact, a potential winner at the end of regulation bounced hard off the rim.
After exploring college options, WPIAL to keep basketball finals in high school gyms
With gathering limits increased statewide, the WPIAL looked into renting a college venue for its basketball championships, but decided to use high school gyms as originally planned.
Ellwood City earns validation, upsets Avonworth in WPIAL Class 3A playoffs
There was nothing invalid about Monday’s playoff win, a 52-point preliminary-round victory that officially ended Ellwood City’s decade-long postseason drought.
PIAA says spring athletes can shed masks outdoors, if physical distancing possible
March 3, 2021
Spring sports athletes and coaches can shed their masks when outdoors, as long as they maintain 6 feet of physical distance, according to new PIAA guidelines for covid-19.
Seneca Valley tops Mt. Lebanon without its coach, earns 1st playoff win since ’13
March 2, 2021
With about 30 seconds until half, Mt. Lebanon decided to hold for the final shot, but Seneca Valley wasn’t in a wait-and-see mood.
WPIAL basketball playoffs to see increase in fans, possibly larger venue for finals
March 1, 2021
There will be more fans in the stands at WPIAL basketball playoff games this week after Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration Monday raised gathering limits on indoor events.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 28, 2021
February 28, 2021
Final regular-season rankings
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings: Feb. 28, 2021
Final regular-season rankings
Opponents try, and fail, to knock North Allegheny top scorer off his game
February 27, 2021
North Allegheny’s Connor Chi occasionally gets cross-checked behind the play or hit a little late by an opponent trying to intimidate him on the ice.
Upper St. Clair tops Chartiers Valley in battle of No. 1 overall seeds
February 26, 2021
This would’ve been a scrimmage most years, tucked between the WPIAL pairings meeting and the playoff openers, but Upper St. Clair and Chartiers Valley played Friday night with purpose.
WPIAL cancels 2 preliminary-round playoff basketball games
February 25, 2021
The WPIAL on Thursday cancelled two playoff basketball games after the Ambridge girls and Propel Braddock Hills boys withdrew from the postseason.
WPIAL takes no action against Mt. Lebanon basketball coach for objecting to official
Mt. Lebanon boys basketball coach Joe David testified in a WPIAL hearing Thursday that he was uncomfortable with one of the officials assigned to his game last week, but insisted he never threatened to take his team and leave.
Breaking down the 2021 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
February 23, 2021
Here is a breakdown of the 2020-21 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs:
In seeding basketball brackets, WPIAL asks: What have you done lately?
When it came time to seed the basketball playoff brackets, the WPIAL asked: What have you done lately?
Controversial finish sees Butler defeat North Allegheny, avenge 2 earlier losses
North Allegheny ran undefeated through its boys basketball section twice, but this winter’s quirky schedule included a third time through, much to NA’s dismay.
WPIAL: Gyms must have capacity of 700 or greater to host basketball playoff games
February 22, 2021
Some top seeds in the WPIAL basketball playoffs could find themselves playing on their opponent’s home floor this winter.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 21, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny seniors earn redemption with WPIBL championship
A couple of pins cost North Allegheny’s boys bowling team a title two seasons ago, so the Tigers made certain this year’s championship match wasn’t as close.
Rodney Gallagher’s winner lifts Laurel Highlands over Thomas Jefferson
February 19, 2021
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher already has accomplished more than most sophomores, but the Mustangs star added two more firsts to his list.
25 basketball teams won’t participate in WPIAL’s open postseason tournament
February 18, 2021
Derry’s girls basketball team earned its way into the WPIAL playoffs last winter, but the one-win Trojans won’t go back this year.
Big 33 Football Classic goes ‘full-speed ahead,’ announces roster with 19 WPIAL players
The weather will be perfect for the Big 33 Football Classic, predicts Garry Cathell, executive director of the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association.
Schools must certify mask exemptions in writing before PIAA playoffs, not WPIALs
February 17, 2021
High school athletes must wear a mask during PIAA postseason competition unless their school certifies in writing that they qualify for a medical exemption.
Lincoln Park tops Quaker Valley in battle for section lead, will rematch Thursday
February 16, 2021
Brandin Cummings gave Lincoln Park the lead with a gutsy 3-pointer in the closing minutes, made two clutch free throws in the final seconds and led his team in scoring for the third game in a row.
Obama Academy boys basketball halts activities after positive covid-19 test
The Obama Academy boys basketball team must shut down activities for 14 days after a player tested positive for covid-19, Pittsburgh Public Schools announced Tuesday.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take early look at boys basketball tournament
February 15, 2021
The WPIAL basketball playoffs will seem bigger than ever this winter since the league intends to hold an open tournament in each of the six classifications.
PIAA might require schools to certify mask-wearing exemptions in writing
With many high school sports teams competing maskless, the PIAA may require postseason participants to certify in writing that their athletes qualify for an exemption under the state mandate.
An early fall? PIAA planning committee opposes starting football season sooner
February 14, 2021
The PIAA doesn’t have a prognosticating groundhog, but after hearing from its strategic planning committee, it doesn’t look like fall sports will arrive any earlier next school year.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take early look at girls basketball tournament
The WPIAL basketball playoffs will seem bigger than ever this winter since the league intends to hold an open tournament in each of the six classifications.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 14, 2021
Class 6A
Aspiring photographer, North Hills swimmer Josh Bogniard seeks picture-perfect WPIALs
When North Hills senior swimmer Josh Bogniard isn’t in the water, he’s often taking photographs of some. Icy waterfalls, mossy streams and a duckweed covered pond appear on the aspiring photographer’s Instagram account.
Brayden Reynolds scores 42; No. 2 Chartiers Valley tops No. 1 New Castle
February 12, 2021
Chartiers Valley’s Brayden Reynolds says his Colts weren’t themselves last month when they hosted New Castle and maybe focused too much on the hype.
Central Catholic lineman Bralen Henderson ‘grinds’ path to Ohio commitment
February 10, 2021
In a normal recruiting year, Bralen Henderson would’ve visited with the dozens of college football coaches who arrive at Central Catholic looking for future players.
Allderdice tops Obama Academy in rematch of City League championship
After going weeks without shooting a basketball, City League scorers will need time to find their touch, predicted Allderdice boys coach Devin Crummie.
WPIAL football players among 30,000 cardboard cutouts in Super Bowl seats
February 7, 2021
WPIAL football fans might recognize some familiar faces in the Super Bowl crowd at Raymond James Stadium.
‘Sigh of relief’ as City League basketball teams ready for delayed season openers
Snow days are sometimes enjoyable but not when you’re a high school basketball player who has waited weeks for a game, and then winter weather extends that wait a few days longer.
New Castle no longer unbeaten, loses to Belle Vernon in semifinal rematch
February 6, 2021
Belle Vernon point guard Devin Whitlock is short in height, quick with the basketball and confident against a trapping defense.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 7, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 6, 2021
Class 6A
Football officials organize free online clinic to recruit more colleagues
February 4, 2021
If someone’s on the fence about becoming a high school football official, there’s an online clinic Saturday designed just for them.
Blackhawk transfer Lorenzo Jenkins ineligible for playoffs after WPIAL hearing
The WPIAL denied a postseason waiver request from Blackhawk transfer Lorenzo Jenkins, leaving him ineligible for the basketball playoffs this winter and for football playoffs next fall.
WPIAL will use high school venues for basketball, swimming championships
The WPIAL plans to use high school venues this winter for its basketball and swimming championships rather than Pitt’s facilities.
Western Pa.’s top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2022
February 3, 2021
The WPIAL and Pittsburgh City League saw almost a dozen football recruits from their 2021 class sign with Power 5 schools this winter. The ‘22 class will need some help in the coming months to match that number.
Sto-Rox scores 20 consecutive 2nd-half points in section win over Carlynton
February 2, 2021
The halftime clock had almost reached zeroes before Sto-Rox emerged from the boys basketball locker room. Coach Dwight Hines later laughed at the suggestion he was in there delivering the best motivational speech of his life.
Opt-in window opens for basketball teams wanting to enter WPIAL playoffs
February 1, 2021
The WPIAL wants to know: Is your basketball team in or out?
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 31, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins works to add snarl to his game
As a future Penn State football player, there’s no questioning Khalil Dinkins’ athleticism. But his basketball coach has told him there’s one flaw in his game: He’s too nice.
No. 3 Montour builds 15-point lead, hangs on for victory over Central Valley
January 29, 2021
Isayah Mosley and his Montour teammates held their breath in the final seconds of a 40-38 victory Friday night as host Central Valley missed at the buzzer.
Young North Catholic lineup wins battle of WPIAL champions over Mohawk
Ava Walker and Alayna Rocco are freshmen starters for North Catholic’s girls basketball team, and teammates Dacia Lewandowski and Tori Drevna are only sophomores.
PIAA moves state swimming, diving championships to high school venue
January 28, 2021
The state swimming championships are changing lanes.
PIAA might keep football championships in November, start season earlier
January 27, 2021
Should the state football championship remain in November, even if that requires an earlier start date or smaller playoffs?
Khalil Dinkins’ double-double helps North Allegheny top North Hills in overtime
January 26, 2021
As a future Penn State football player, there’s no questioning Khalil Dinkins’ athleticism. But his basketball coach has told him there’s one flaw in his game: He’s too nice.
WPIAL denies postseason eligibility for Chartiers Valley girls basketball player
January 25, 2021
The Chartiers Valley girls will be missing one of their top players when the WPIAL basketball playoffs arrive this winter.
Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame delays induction ceremony until 2022
January 24, 2021
The Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame has delayed its next induction ceremony until 2022.
Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak extended for another year
The Big 33 Football Classic was canceled last spring but the game’s Super Bowl streak continues.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 23, 2021
Class 6A
Chartiers Valley’s state-record winning streak snapped at 64 games
The streak is over.
North Allegheny swimmers continue to ‘shoot for excellence’
Swimmers aren’t yet sure how many of them will qualify for the WPIAL championship meet but that’s just the latest twist in what’s been a challenging winter.
OLSH avenges last season’s only loss with mercy rule win over Aliquippa
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart waited more than a year for this chance to avenge its only loss from last season.
New Castle backs up No. 1 ranking with victory over No. 2 Chartiers Valley
January 19, 2021
New Castle joined a larger classification this winter but the results seem much the same.
Moon basketball’s Reilly Sunday commits to Duquesne
Moon point guard Reilly Sunday, who’s sidelined this basketball season with a knee injury, committed Tuesday to Duquesne.
63! Chartiers Valley girls break state basketball win streak record
January 18, 2021
Silver balloons hung in Chartiers Valley’s locker room after Monday’s girls basketball game, with some spelling out “yay!” and others “63.”
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2021
Class 6A
Now healthy, Habib steps into new role for North Allegheny
Greg Habib’s junior season ended early last winter when a player fell into his leg at Seneca Valley’s gym, forced his knee inward and injured his medial collateral ligament.
Chartiers Valley girls quietly tie longest winning streak in state basketball history
There were a couple of high fives when the clock reached zeroes Friday night but nothing more than usual as Chartiers Valley wrapped up a 53-point section win over Moon.
Facing 1-game suspension, Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic resigns
January 15, 2021
Facing a one-game suspension handed down by his school district, Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic resigned instead.
Norwin investigates on-court incident between basketball coach, opposing player
January 14, 2021
The WPIAL won’t seek to discipline Norwin’s boys basketball coach for an on-court incident with a player since the school district has already addressed the issue.
Woodland Hills suspends boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic 1 game for social media post
Woodland Hills suspended boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic for one game in response to a social media post last week that criticized game officials.
WPIAL ‘publicly censures’ Woodland Hills basketball coach Matt Furjanic for tweet
January 13, 2021
Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic tweets mostly about presidential politics to his 436 Twitter followers, but the WPIAL found one of his other posts more controversial.
Blistering 32-point quarter carries new-look North Allegheny past Seneca Valley
North Allegheny’s boys basketball team hasn’t reached triple digits in the past five seasons, which isn’t all that surprising since scoring 100 points is rare in the WPIAL.
Pittsburgh City League winter sports will start Jan. 25
January 11, 2021
City League sports teams can begin their winter seasons Jan. 25, two days before Pittsburgh Public Schools students are expected to resume in-person classes.
Damned if you do: Woodland Hills coach, WPIAL board to chat about Tweet
Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic has a no cursing policy and violators run sprints at practice. Now, Furjanic might be the one running, although he disputes whether the word he uttered should count.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 10, 2021
Class 6A
Deep roster to play key role for North Hills boys basketball
North Hills boys basketball coach Buzz Gabos has plans for the 10th, 11th and maybe even 12th player on the team’s bench.
Lincoln Park caps unofficial tip-off tournament with win over Central Catholic
L.A. Pratt’s calf was cramping but he had a wide-open hoop ahead of him, so he waved off the timeout and finished a one-legged layup.
Mt. Lebanon’s strong 3rd quarter spoils Jeff Ackermann’s Baldwin debut
January 9, 2021
After practicing just four times since late November, Mt. Lebanon coach Joe David could only wonder what his basketball team might look like this season.
Return policy: Answering the big questions as WPIAL teams get back on the court
January 7, 2021
Worried? Skeptical? Angry?
Uniontown leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
January 6, 2021
Uniontown is leaving WPIAL football for an independent schedule, a decision school administrators hope can spark a struggling program.
Gov. Wolf: Shutdown of high school sports will end Monday
December 30, 2020
After a three-week pause of interscholastic sports, it’s time to push “play.”
PIAA, WPIAL delay team wrestling championships
December 22, 2020
The PIAA remains committed to crowning team wrestling champions this winter, but for now it doesn’t know when or where.
PIAA relaxes preseason practice rule, anticipates restarting sports Jan. 4
Help has arrived for high school teams that fell behind schedule on their preseason practices.
5 Central Valley teammates voted all-state; Ameer Dudley named top player in 3A
Undefeated Central Valley was unmatched this season, a dominance that was rewarded in all-state voting Tuesday.
Beaver Falls trio leads 7 WPIAL players on Class 2A all-state football team
A month after winning a WPIAL football title, Beaver Falls teammates Josh Hough, Mitchell Myers and Tyler Jones have reason to celebrate again.
Jeannette’s Birch brothers among 7 WPIAL players named all-state in Class A
Jeannette brothers Brett and Brad Birch, who combined to lead the Jayhawks to a WPIAL title, are together again.
WPIAL adopts ‘open tournament’ for basketball playoffs allowing all teams to participate
December 21, 2020
WPIAL basketball teams can forget about playoff scenarios this winter.
Subsection wrestling tournaments among ideas WPIAL board to consider
December 20, 2020
The WPIAL wrestling committee wants subsection tournaments added to the individual postseason schedule this winter as the league adjusts to covid-19 restrictions.
PIAA will consider relaxing 15-practice requirement for winter sports teams
December 18, 2020
Will the PIAA let athletes skip practice? Some coaches hope so.
North Catholic sweeps MVP awards on Allegheny 7 all-conference football team
December 17, 2020
Conference champion North Catholic was rewarded with nine first-team spots on the all-Allegheny Seven football team, and three Trojans earned individual awards in a vote of coaches.
WPIAL finalists Jeannette, Clairton lead all-Eastern Conference football team
WPIAL Class A finalists Jeannette and Clairton combined to earn 19 first-team spots on the all-Eastern Conference football team in a vote of coaches.
WPIAL’s 2021 football recruits make commitments official by signing early
December 16, 2020
For the fourth year, the NCAA allowed college football recruits to sign early, making their commitments official in mid December rather than early February.
WPIAL champion coach brings spark to North Allegheny boys basketball
December 13, 2020
Matt McDonough and Robby Jones knew there would be some wide eyes in the gym, so they offered words of advice to their North Allegheny teammates about new basketball coach Dan DeRose.
WPIAL teams in action Friday night savor the moment, worry about what’s next
December 12, 2020
In all of his years as the Mars boys basketball coach, Rob Carmody has never celebrated an undefeated season.
PIAA doesn’t anticipate ‘pause’ becoming lengthy shutdown
December 11, 2020
PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi said he doesn’t believe this “pause” of interscholastic sports will drag on for months like the shutdown last spring.
Gov. Wolf shuts down interscholastic, recreational sports until Jan. 4
December 10, 2020
With covid-19 cases increasing statewide, Gov. Tom Wolf “paused” interscholastic and recreational sports Thursday, one day before high school teams were scheduled to start their winter schedules.
PIAA moves forward with winter sports despite pleas from school administrators
December 9, 2020
The PIAA will let winter sports start Friday as scheduled over pleas from school administrators asking to delay as covid-19 cases rise.
Trib HSSN 2020-21 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball preseason breakdown
December 8, 2020
This will surely be a boys basketball season like no other.
Trib HSSN 2020-21 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball preseason breakdown
December 7, 2020
This will surely be a boys basketball season like no other.
School districts’ masks policies could impact WPIAL competitions
“Mask or no mask” has become a WPIAL dilemma.
Undefeated state champions lead Trib 25 football all-stars
December 6, 2020
Two WPIAL teams went unbeaten from start to finish, remarkable seasons that included lopsided wins, running clocks and record-setting stats.
North Allegheny looking to again contend for PIHL Penguins Cup title
December 5, 2020
The PIHL shut down its playoffs before reaching the finals last season, so North Allegheny coach Mike Bagnato told his players to consider themselves the reigning champions.
Shenango, Rochester top all-conference selections for Big 7 football team
December 4, 2020
Shenango and Rochester tied atop the Big Seven standings and had five players apiece earn first-team all-conference honors in the WPIAL Class A conference.
California leads Tri-County South with 9 all-conference football players
California running back Jaeden Zuzak, the WPIAL’s third-leading rusher this season, was among 45 players named all-conference in the Class A Tri-County South.
10 Apollo-Ridge players earn 1st-team honors in Allegheny Conference
Apollo-Ridge running back Logan Harmon and lineman Greg Klingensmith were among 10 Vikings who earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 2A Allegheny.
Beaver Falls’ Josh Hough, Laurel’s Mitch Miles earn top conference honors in MAC
WPIAL champion Beaver Falls earned seven first-team spots on the Midwestern all-conference team led by senior Josh Hough, who was named offensive player of the year.
McGuffey quarterback, lineman, coach earn all-conference awards in Century
McGuffey quarterback Rocco Falosk and lineman Aiden Brookman each earned individual conference honors after leading the Highlanders to the Century title.
Sto-Rox, Western Beaver lead Three Rivers all-conference football team
December 3, 2020
Sto-Rox and Western Beaver, which tied atop the Class 2A Three Rivers standings, led the all-conference voting with six first-team players.
Pittsburgh Public Schools postpones City League winter sports until January
Pittsburgh Public Schools has delayed the start of winter sports in the City League until at least January.
Elizabeth Forward leads Interstate all-conference vote with 8 first-team picks
Elizabeth Forward celebrated the second undefeated regular season in school history, an achievement that was rewarded in the all-conference voting.
Central Valley sweeps individual awards on Northwestern 6 all-conference team
December 2, 2020
Much like during the season, Central Valley again stood atop the Northwestern Six, this time in the all-conference voting.
Chartiers Valley basketball’s Aislin Malcolm commits to Pitt
Chartiers Valley junior Aislin Malcolm already has two wins on her future home court.
Beaver Falls football rallies around trainer touched by coronavirus tragedy
As an athletic trainer for high school sports teams, Dan Summers made it his responsibility to keep Beaver Falls football players safe from coronavirus. Hand sanitizer was taped to the back of his golf cart, and he used a water sprayer to cool athletes from a safe distance during practice.
7 players named all-conference for both offense, defense on Big 8 football team
December 1, 2020
Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock and McKeesport’s Colin Lyons were among seven players who earned first-team all-conference honors on both sides of the football in the Class 4A Big Eight.
Aliquippa, Chartiers Valley lead all-conference football team in Parkway
Aliquippa’s Vernon Redd and Chartiers Valley’s Anthony Collura earned all-conference honors on both sides of the football in the Class 4A Parkway.
Plum earns 10 all-conference picks after undefeated record in Greater Allegheny
Plum celebrated its first undefeated regular season since 1977, an accomplishment that was rewarded in the all-conference voting by Greater Allegheny coaches.
PIAA savors fall season completed against all odds
November 30, 2020
There was cause to celebrate, but PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi probably didn’t spike the football or exchange high-fives after the state championships finished Saturday night.
Penn-Trafford leads all-conference picks on Big East football team
Penn-Trafford quarterback Ethan Carr was among 10 teammates who earned first-team all-conference honors, and Warriors coach John Ruane earned Coach of the Year honors in the Class 5A Big East this season.
Central Catholic leads WPIAL Class 6A all-conference football team
WPIAL champion Central Catholic had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in Class 6A, including running back Eddy Tillman, who led the largest classification in rushing.
Pine-Richland earns 12 all-conference spots on Northeast football team
A dozen Pine-Richland players earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 5A Northeast, including the record-setting combination of quarterback Cole Spencer and receiver Eli Jochem.
Peters Township tops Allegheny 6 all-conference football team
Peters Township reached the WPIAL finals for the second year in a row and was rewarded with eight first-team spots on the Allegheny Six all-conference team.
Thomas Jefferson defends title, captures 5th PIAA football championship
November 28, 2020
HERSHEY — Style points aren’t important to Thomas Jefferson’s football team, or else the Jaguars coaching staff wouldn’t be wearing shorts in 40-degree weather.
PIAA Class 4A championship breakdown: Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore
Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore
Pine-Richland routs Cathedral Prep to claim PIAA Class 5A title
November 27, 2020
HERSHEY — Luke Miller was a Pine-Richland waterboy four years ago when the Rams last celebrated a state football championship at Hersheypark Stadium.
Central Valley caps undefeated season with PIAA Class 3A championship
HERSHEY — The second-half clock usually moves lightning quick for Central Valley games, but this time the Warriors insisted it felt excruciatingly slow.
5 things to watch at the PIAA football championships
With a laugh, Cathedral Prep coach Mike Mischler brags that his defense hasn’t given up a point in weeks.
PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep
November 26, 2020
Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep
PIAA championship ‘final chapter’ for record-setting Pine-Richland seniors
Cole Spencer has won more games than any quarterback in Pine-Richland history, and Eli Jochem owns all-time receiving records for catches and yards.
Few tickets. No locker rooms. Covid-19 alters football team plans for PIAA championships
November 25, 2020
Central Valley’s football players will eat Thanksgiving dinner at the school, enjoying food served only by their coaches, before the team boards its buses to Hershey.
Thomas Jefferson doesn’t look back while chasing consecutive PIAA Class 4A titles
November 24, 2020
Thomas Jefferson likes to celebrate its championship tradition, but this year’s football team has grown a little tired of talking about last year’s accomplishments.
PIAA drastically cuts football championship tickets to meet Gov. Wolf’s order
State championship football teams will receive 386 tickets apiece from the PIAA for this weekend’s games, far fewer than originally planned.
PIAA puts football ticket sales on hold after governor tightens gathering limits
November 23, 2020
Ticket sales are on hold for the PIAA football championships after Gov. Tom Wolf announced new limits on gathering sizes.
Pine-Richland headed to Hershey after wild win over Governor Mifflin
November 21, 2020
HOLLIDAYSBURG — “It was over” when Pine-Richland stumbled off the bus and let Governor Mifflin score the first three touchdowns.
Pine-Richland’s stout run defense faces star tailback in PIAA 5A semifinals
Here’s what makes Pine-Richland’s semifinal opponent dangerous:
Defending champion Thomas Jefferson routs Oil City, returns to PIAA 4A final
November 20, 2020
Thomas Jefferson had the football 10 times Friday night and scored nine touchdowns, an almost-perfect performance that has the Jaguars headed back to Hershey.
Slowing Wilmington’s running game key for Beaver Falls in PIAA 2A semifinal
November 19, 2020
Studying film of Wilmington’s offensive line made Beaver Falls coach Nick Nardone think back to a Week 2 matchup with Laurel.
Seton LaSalle hires Mauro Monz as football coach
Seton LaSalle reached into its past to find its future football coach.
PIAA urges winter sports teams to ‘set the foundation’ by starting practice Friday
November 18, 2020
The PIAA is encouraging winter sports teams to “set the foundation” by starting preseason practice Friday, if possible.
Individual schools must decide if athletes wear masks for competition, PIAA says
Could wearing a mask during a football game or soccer match be considered an unsafe condition?
WPIAL bans Peters Township band after investigating ‘blackface’ allegations
November 17, 2020
The Peters Township marching band is prohibited from performing at any WPIAL event until the school district submits a plan to “eradicate the social and racial insensitivity displayed by the marching band and its director/supervisors,” the WPIAL announced Tuesday.
Central Valley’s Ameer Dudley chooses Ivy League football, ‘best education’
Three days after winning a WPIAL championship, Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley had more reason to celebrate.
WPIAL considers changes to swimming championships, other winter sports
November 16, 2020
The WPIAL might hold its swimming and basketball championships somewhere other than Pitt’s facilities this winter. Of course, that’s assuming there are winter sports championships.
Thomas Jefferson stops Aliquippa in OT in WPIAL finals dream matchup
November 14, 2020
If there was any uncertainty on Thomas Jefferson’s sideline, it was about the high school rules for overtime.
North Allegheny runners elevate their game, sweep PIAA cross country titles
There’s an old theory that Western Pennsylvania cross country runners are better on hilly courses while their counterparts from the east thrive on fast, flat stretches.
Beaver Falls’ big backs will test Sto-Rox in WPIAL Class 2A final
Beaver Falls could use multiple receivers, spread the field and throw the football in Saturday’s WPIAL championship.
Aliquippa brings ‘massive’ line into Class 4A final against Thomas Jefferson
When Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak talks about Aliquippa’s linemen, he doesn’t compare them with any group he coached to a WPIAL title.
WPIAL Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Thomas Jefferson
WPIAL Class 4A football championship
Central Valley claims WPIAL title with yet another dominant performance
November 13, 2020
Call it a mercy mission.
Trib HSSN’s high school football championships primer
The WPIAL will host four football championship games Saturday after holding the Class 3A final Friday night. The Pittsburgh City League also will contest its championship game Saturday afternoon.
Central Catholic football forfeits PIAA quarterfinal over covid-19 concerns
Central Catholic’s run in the state football playoffs is over before it started.
WPIAL Class 2A football championship breakdown: Beaver Falls vs. Sto-Rox
November 12, 2020
WPIAL Class 2A football championship
Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley sets commitment date
November 8, 2020
Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley has a big game and a big decision ahead.
PIAA announces sites, times for football state semifinals
Central Catholic’s first opponent in the state playoffs will have a home-field advantage.
5 things we learned: Central Catholic coach Terry Totten climbs list with 6th WPIAL title
Only three football coaches have won more WPIAL titles than Central Catholic’s Terry Totten, but he hasn’t spent any time contemplating his place in league history.
Campus visit convinces Gateway’s Derrick Davis to pick LSU
November 7, 2020
Derrick Davis visited Louisiana around the age of 8 for a youth track meet. He finished 17th in the country in the 100-meter dash, an early glimpse of the athleticism that has made him a coveted college football recruit.
Central Catholic tops North Allegheny, repeats as WPIAL Class 6A champion
November 6, 2020
Eddy Tillman scored three rushing touchdowns and Central Catholic’s defense was dominant in the second half Friday night, a familiar combination for the Vikings in recent years.
North Allegheny cross country teams set for unique PIAA championship race
In a typical cross country meet, runners can see the competition ahead of them or hear their footsteps approaching from behind.
5 things to watch: WPIAL 6A finalists linked through their coaches
A chain connects Central Catholic and North Allegheny, but that’s not the only link between the two football teams.
WPIAL Class 6A football finals breakdown: North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
North Allegheny, Central Catholic doubted if anyone would celebrate WPIAL 6A title
Seven times, North Allegheny coach Art Walker has taken a football team to the WPIAL finals. Central Catholic’s Terry Totten has the Vikings in the championship game for the eighth time.
WPIAL will start winter sports on time
November 4, 2020
With the first practices only weeks away, the WPIAL won’t make any changes to the winter sports schedule after receiving mixed feedback from schools.
5 things we learned in opening round of WPIAL football playoffs
October 31, 2020
Sto-Rox’s coach LaRoi Johnson has a bundle of 2-point plays he will call in any situation, but with Friday’s game on the line, he summoned his sophomore kicker.
North Allegheny, North Hills set to host WPIAL football finals
The WPIAL football finals are moving from the North Shore to the North Hills.
Dominant Central Catholic defense shuts out Mt. Lebanon, returns to WPIAL finals
October 30, 2020
Like old west prospectors searching for gold, defensive lineman Bralen Henderson and his Central Catholic teammates spent this fall talking about nuggets.
What to watch in Week 8: Small-school Aliquippa enters 4A playoffs as top seed
The No. 1 seed in WPIAL Class 4A football is one of the smallest schools in the WPIAL.
Central Catholic stands in way of Mt. Lebanon’s 1st WPIAL final since 2000
Mt. Lebanon’s motto this season is simply: Why not us?
PIAA approves covid-19 guidelines for winter, remains ‘cautiously optimistic’
October 29, 2020
PIAA basketball teams should limit the number of individuals on their bench to maintain a social distance of six feet or more when possible.
Pay to play? PIAA board discusses fee for state playoff qualifiers
October 28, 2020
The PIAA might someday charge schools a fee to compete in the state playoffs, creating an alternate source of income as the coronavirus pandemic batters its budget.
PIAA gives teams home-field advantage in state playoffs
Some WPIAL teams will have a home-field advantage in the state playoffs.
WPIAL football committee’s choices leave ‘sour taste’ for some coaches
October 25, 2020
After Avonworth’s regular-season finale was canceled because of coronavirus concerns, football coach Duke Johncour told his players to start preparing for any number of playoff scenarios.
5 things we learned in Week 7: Two leading QBs questionable for WPIAL playoff openers
October 24, 2020
Two of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks are questionable to play as their teams approach the playoffs.
Breaking down the 2020 WPIAL football playoffs
Here’s a class-by-class breakdown of the WPIAL football playoff brackets:
WPIAL reveals 2020 football playoff brackets
The WPIAL promised its football teams weeks ago that if they canceled games for covid-19, those decisions wouldn’t hurt their qualifying chances come playoff time.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 7
Class 6A
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel make final predictions for football pairings
This was a football season unlike any other.
Mt. Lebanon tops Seneca Valley with blocked extra point in overtime
October 23, 2020
With its playoff hopes in jeopardy, Mt. Lebanon would’ve gone for two in overtime Friday night, sticking with coach Bob Palko’s win-or-go-home reputation.
Home field in playoffs likely at stake as Mt. Lebanon visits Seneca Valley
If Mt. Lebanon wins Friday’s regular-season finale at Seneca Valley, the Blue Devils will likely receive one of the top two seeds in the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs.
Avonworth cancels Friday football game, Central Valley finds new opponent
October 22, 2020
Avonworth canceled Friday night’s football game over covid-related concerns, Central Valley athletic director Sam Cercone said Thursday.
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins commits to Penn State
October 21, 2020
Video conference calls replaced many of the in-school recruiting visits and campus tours canceled during the pandemic.
5 things we learned in Week 6: WPIAL linemen can score touchdowns too
October 17, 2020
Could there be a quarterback controversy brewing at Pine-Richland?
WPIAL football rankings for Week 6
Class 6A
Covid-19 shutdown forces defending champion North Allegheny girls to turn focus to playoffs
As a defending WPIAL champion, no one would’ve blamed North Allegheny’s girls soccer team for glancing ahead to the playoffs.
Sto-Rox forces 7 turnovers, lets Josh Jenkins shine in victory over Western Beaver
October 16, 2020
Sto-Rox’s Josh Jenkins is a little like Taysom Hill of the New Orleans Saints, says coach LaRoi Johnson. Or, if you want an old-school reference closer to McKees Rocks, he suggests Kordell Stewart.
5 things to watch in Week 6: Some WPIAL conferences may crown no champion
Some WPIAL football conferences may have no champion this season.
Explosive Sto-Rox offense, Western Beaver’s big-play defense share Week 6 limelight
The lights above Sto-Rox’s football field aren’t new, but they might feel a little brighter this week.
WPIAL reveals postseason plans, awards home games to higher seeds
October 14, 2020
If playoff qualifiers can’t be determined from the standings, the WPIAL steering committee for each sport will decide who makes the postseason this fall.
Baldwin, Seneca Valley delay football game to Saturday
Baldwin and Seneca Valley have delayed this week’s football game to Saturday.
PIAA flexibility lets Blackhawk, New Castle reschedule football game Oct. 30
Blackhawk and New Castle rescheduled their postponed football game for Oct. 30, the first week of the WPIAL playoffs, taking advantage of a PIAA decision to let teams extend the regular season.
5 things we learned in WPIAL Week 5
How will the WPIAL decide which football teams make the playoffs since covid-19 cancellations made the standings unbalanced?
After strong section season, North Allegheny runners prepare for championship meets
When North Allegheny’s runners walked to the starting line wearing masks for their early-September scrimmage, coach John Neff wasn’t sure what to expect from cross country season under covid-19 conditions.
Small-school Aliquippa shows big-play ability in victory over Chartiers Valley
October 9, 2020
Aliquippa is a small school known for its big plays.
Covid-19 case forces New Castle to shut down football activities for 2 weeks
New Castle is shutting down its football program for two weeks after a varsity player tested positive for coronavirus, costing the Red Hurricanes at least two games, athletic director Sam Flora said Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 5: Gateway returns to ‘normal’
After a two-week coronavirus hiatus, Gateway’s football team is getting back to normal. Or as close to normal as possible in a week that starts on Wednesday and ends with a game Sunday night.
Aliquippa, Chartiers Valley follow different routes to Parkway clash in Class 4A
October 8, 2020
Anthony Collura heard stories about the horse, the rider and the flaming spear that arrives at Aliquippa football games, but the Chartiers Valley senior wasn’t sure they were true.
PIAA tweaks fall playoff brackets, cross country qualifiers for state championship
October 7, 2020
The PIAA made changes to its fall postseason plans Wednesday including a move that lets more WPIAL runners into the state cross country championships.
PIAA readies covid-19 guidelines for winter, intends to start seasons as scheduled
As fall sports approach the postseason, the PIAA is turning its attention to winter.
New attendance limits remove some stress for WPIAL schools
October 6, 2020
High school administrators across the PIAA were verifying the number of seats in their stadiums and gymnasiums Tuesday after Gov. Tom Wolf eased limits on gathering sizes.
2 WPIAL teams earn national recognition from High School Football America
October 5, 2020
Two WPIAL football teams are earning national attention.
Gateway, Penn-Trafford choose Sunday night kickoff for football game
Sunday night football is coming to the WPIAL.
10 members of WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Council bring varied experiences
When Loran Cooley met the other individuals chosen for the first WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council, he noticed a long list of doctorates.
4 WPIAL football teams maintain long conference streaks as Penn Hills’ ends
October 4, 2020
One of WPIAL football’s longest active conference winning streaks ended Saturday, leaving four double-digit streaks intact.
5 things we learned in Week 4: Zero tolerance works for Elizabeth Forward
October 3, 2020
If the other team doesn’t score, it can’t win.
WPIAL Football Rankings for Week 4
Here’s a look at this week’s WPIAL football rankings:
Multiple-QB approach working for North Allegheny
The Friday night started with Tanner Potts taking the first snap for North Allegheny’s offense. Ryan Treser handled the second snap, and soon Greg Phillips was behind center for the Tigers.
Gannon Carothers’ versatility helps No. 2 Central Catholic defeat No. 3 Seneca Valley
October 2, 2020
Gannon Carothers’ coaches say the junior plays five positions for Central Catholic, a versatility that seemed invaluable Friday night.
Gov. Wolf: Spectator situation ‘confusing’ for schools, no updated guidance yet
The gathering limits ruled unconstitutional two weeks ago are back in place statewide, leaving some high school athletic directors to ask: Now what?
Spectators again restricted at high school sports but Gov. Wolf says ‘stay tuned’
October 1, 2020
North Allegheny will have a socially distant student section at Friday’s football game, and Norwin is moving forward with its homecoming festivities as planned.
Kiski Area running back Kenneth Blake commits to Albany
September 30, 2020
Kiski Area’s Kenneth Blake will play college football in New York for a team with Western Pennsylvania connections.
Clairton cancels Week 4 football game with Bishop Canevin
Clairton football practices are shut down until next week over covid-19 concerns and Saturday’s game against Bishop Canevin was canceled, the school announced Wednesday night.
5 things we learned in Week 3: Drop in classification lifts WPIAL teams to 3-0 starts
September 26, 2020
After years battling as one of the smallest WPIAL schools in Class 5A football, Chartiers Valley this season became one of the largest in 4A — a move that’s had an immediate impact.
WPIAL Football Rankings for Week 3
Class 6A
Young North Hills boys soccer team looking to build
With almost two dozen sophomores and freshmen on the roster, North Hills boys soccer coach Jared Steigerwald has focused this fall on teaching fundamentals.
North Allegheny answers questions with victory over top-ranked Central Catholic
September 25, 2020
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins knew there were questions about his untested football team entering Friday’s game with rival Central Catholic.
5 things to watch in Week 3: WPIAL No. 1 vs. No. 2 in largest classifications
It’s one vs. two, twice.
Central Catholic’s Eddy Tillman gets home-field advantage vs. North Allegheny
September 24, 2020
Central Catholic’s football team doesn’t have a home field, but running back Eddy Tillman will be close to home Friday night.
WPIAL football playoffs will have 8-team brackets in most classifications
WPIAL football teams can start counting their Gardner Points now, because some will need them to break ties in about five weeks.
PIAA adopts slimmed-down state playoff brackets for fall sports
September 23, 2020
The state playoffs are now a win-and-get-in scenario.
Gov. Wolf’s veto of House Bill 2787 stands as state House override falls short
To the dismay of many high school sports fans, Gov. Tom Wolf’s veto of House Bill 2787 will stand.
WPIAL schools start allowing more spectators as governor’s limits become voluntary
September 22, 2020
Gov. Tom Wolf would prefer schools adhere to his gathering limits at sports events, but acknowledged Tuesday they’re not legally binding “at least for the moment.”
WPIAL chooses alternate site for cross country championships
September 21, 2020
Cross country runners who competed last week in the Red, White and Blue Classic got an early look at the WPIAL championship course.
Gov. Wolf vetoes House Bill 2787, leaving high school sports spectators in limbo
Gov. Tom Wolf followed through on his promise Monday and vetoed legislation that would have let school districts set their own attendance limits for sports.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of high school football
September 19, 2020
With Friday night’s win over Mt. Lebanon, a team Canon-McMillan hadn’t defeated in 12 years, the Big Macs bolstered their playoff chances.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 2
Ranking, record and previous week’s ranking:
Under new leadership, North Hills girls soccer optimistic for success
Rick Kabbert was leery he’d face some skepticism.
Top-ranked Pine-Richland wastes no time in victory over No. 4 Upper St. Clair
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer had the football in his hands so often Friday night that he felt like he’d left a half-dozen touchdowns on the field.
Wolf administration asks schools to voluntarily enforce gathering limits
September 18, 2020
The updated guidance for high school sports and spectators promised by Gov. Tom Wolf was a no-show Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 2: Seneca Valley among 7 teams ready for delayed openers
Tired of making each other black and blue, Seneca Valley’s football players want to hit somebody not wearing blue and black.
Baldwin cancels 2 football games after coach tests positive for covid-19
September 17, 2020
Baldwin shut down all football activities for at least 14 days after a member of the coaching staff tested positive for covid-19, the school announced Thursday.
Attendance limits force Neshannock football mother to experience ‘worst fear’ from afar
Landon Shaffer’s parents were allotted one ticket for his high school football game, so his mother resorted to watching a video stream on her cell phone.
West Greene-California football game postponed over covid-19 concerns
September 16, 2020
Covid-19 concerns caused West Greene to postpone Friday’s football game against California.
Gov. Wolf: Schools will receive updated guidance on sports spectators this week
The state Department of Education will release updated guidance this week regarding spectators at interscholastic sporting events, Gov. Tom Wolf said Wednesday.
State lawmakers urge Gov. Wolf to sign bill, let schools set spectator limits for sports
A bipartisan group of state lawmakers gathered Wednesday and urged Gov. Tom Wolf to sign House Bill 2787, legislation that lets individual schools set spectator limits for sports.
5 things we learned from WPIAL Week 1: Smattering of fans an ‘eerie’ atmosphere
September 12, 2020
WPIAL football looked familiar, but it certainly sounded quieter than ever.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 1
WPIAL football
Upper St. Clair stays grounded, defeats rival Bethel Park with 5 rushing TDs
September 11, 2020
Dual-threat quarterback Ethan Dahlem scored twice Friday night, yet Upper St. Clair didn’t need him to carry the load alone anymore.
Sto-Rox cancels football game 3 hours before kickoff
A few hours before kickoff, Sto-Rox canceled its season-opening football game.
Controlling tempo key for Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park in Allegheny 6 opener
Mike Junko doesn’t make his team run gassers, suicide sprints or whatever other name the exhausting workouts are called.
North Allegheny boys soccer focused on finishing chances
September 10, 2020
In soccer coach Bobby Vosmaer’s view, his North Allegheny boys need to finish their scoring chances to keep their season from ending early again.
Waynesburg adds Ariz. wrestling champion as WPIAL sorts out-of-state transfers
For the second year in a row, Waynesburg’s wrestling team has added a state champion from another part of the country.
Gov. Wolf says schools shouldn’t decide spectator limits for sports
Advocates for House Bill 2787 are ignoring reality, said Gov. Tom Wolf, who insisted Thursday that individual schools shouldn’t set their own attendance policies for athletics.
Serra Catholic postpones football team’s season opener
Serra Catholic, which closed its school building for a couple of days this week, has also postponed its football team’s season opener.
WPIAL football teams ready to embark on season like no other
After an evening of continuous collisions, two of the WPIAL’s top football teams wanted to show their respect for one another, but they weren’t exactly sure how.
Central Catholic transfer Langston Moses wins appeal, eligible for basketball playoffs
September 9, 2020
If Central Catholic qualifies for the WPIAL basketball playoffs, junior Langston Moses is eligible to take part this winter, the WPIAL decided Wednesday.
Pa. Senate passes bill letting school districts decide who attends sporting events
If House Bill 2787 becomes law, state Rep. Mike Reese plans to watch some high school football games and see his niece play volleyball at Hempfield.
Veteran QB Cole Spencer leads Pine-Richland into new Class 5A schedule
September 7, 2020
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer threw for nearly 3,000 yards last season, but that isn’t the number his coach likes most.
North Hills to rely on senior class to navigate new-look conference slate
North Hills enters the fall with a football team that’s senior-heavy but light on experience.
WPIAL sets football playoffs for 2021, but this year’s format clouded by covid-19
September 6, 2020
Covid-19 uncertainty clouds this year’s playoff picture, but the WPIAL did make a recent decision about the 2021 football postseason.
WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: South Fayette, Pine-Richland face new challenges
How long has it been since South Fayette wasn’t a clear conference favorite?
Gateway junior Patrick Body Jr. becomes 2nd Gators safety with Pitt offer
There’s already a four-star safety in Gateway’s senior class, but now there’s a Power 5 defensive back in the junior class as well.
One WPIAL football team expects hundreds of fans at its opener: South Fayette
September 4, 2020
South Fayette’s football team will travel two hours for its season opener, but there is an obvious silver lining. By playing a game out of state, the Lions can have a couple of hundred of their fans in the stands.
Legislation that gives schools say on spectators moves closer to Gov. Wolf’s desk
September 3, 2020
Before WPIAL football teams kick off next week, state lawmakers may send a bill to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk that would let more spectators attend interscholastic events.
Gov. Wolf lifts ban on spectators at interscholastic sports
September 2, 2020
Spectators can watch football, soccer and all other high school sports this fall after Gov. Tom Wolf lifted his ban on fans at interscholastic athletics. But Wolf kept strict limits on gathering sizes, meaning many stadium seats and gym bleachers might stay empty.
Almost every member school will play fall sports, WPIAL survey says
September 1, 2020
The results of the WPIAL survey are clear: Almost everyone is playing fall sports.
PIAA rejects Thursday kickoff request for WPIAL football season
High school football season won’t start on a Thursday night.
Central Catholic returns 2,000-yard rusher but QB job remains 5-way battle
August 31, 2020
Central Catholic has five guys competing to play quarterback, and whoever wins the job will practice handing the football to Eddy Tillman.
Strong junior class has Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko optimistic in Year 2
Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko had 14 sophomores earn a varsity letter in his first season with the Blue Devils.
North Allegheny replaces top rusher, passer, receiver from last year’s lineup
North Allegheny coach Art Walker has always had a go-to guy in the backfield, one running back who’d shoulder the bulk of the carries.
Central Catholic football star, Pitt recruit Elliot Donald skipping senior season
August 30, 2020
The possibility he’d infect his granddad or any other family member with covid-19 was too much risk, said Central Catholic football star Elliot Donald, who decided to skip his senior season.
Shady Side Academy delays football season until Week 3
August 28, 2020
Shady Side Academy won’t start football season until Week 3, a decision meant to limit potential exposure to coronavirus.
Uniontown reinstates football, soccer seasons after initially canceling fall contact sports
Football and soccer seasons were reinstated Friday at Uniontown.
Peters Township has high-end talent to contend again
August 27, 2020
Peters Township came within one point of winning the WPIAL Class 5A title last season, but that rain-soaked loss didn’t close the team’s championship window.
Lack of returning starters doesn’t faze Bethel Park
Bethel Park graduated all 11 starters on offense and 10 on defense, but coach Brian DeLallo won’t call this a “rebuilding” year.
South Fayette brings cutting-edge offense into Class 5A competition
South Fayette quarterback Naman Alemada was running the New England Patriots offense at times last season, with plays designed for small-but-quick receivers.
Dahlem, Pantelis return to bolster Upper St. Clair aerial attack
Ethan Dahlem and David Pantelis have a quarterback-receiver connection that Upper St. Clair coach Mike Junko describes as nearly clairvoyant.
Online offseason helps West Allegheny, new coach get up to speed
West Allegheny not only has a new head coach but also a new offensive coordinator and an entirely new offense.
Pittsburgh’s City League teams can start fall sports without delay
August 26, 2020
There will be City League sports this fall.
Covid-19 forces Seneca Valley to cancel football scrimmage, season opener
August 25, 2020
Concerned that an athlete had direct exposure to covid-19, Seneca Valley shut down football workouts indefinitely Tuesday, meaning it also must cancel its preseason scrimmage and season opener.
Would school districts be legally liable for athletes contracting covid-19?
If a school district lets students play sports and one contracts covid-19 with complications, could the school be held legally responsible?
WPIAL sets Sept. 1 deadline for schools to opt out of fall sports
August 24, 2020
The WPIAL believes a large majority of member schools will play sports this fall, but it’s hoping to know for sure in the next week.
Mt. Lebanon shuts down football workouts, must cancel season opener
A positive covid-19 test caused Mt. Lebanon to shut down football activities until next week, a delay that will force the team to cancel its preseason scrimmage and season opener.
Football coaches fear postponement, transfers could doom City League
August 23, 2020
City League football coaches are worried about losing their season, but they’re also fearful they could lose the entire league.
WPIAL treasurer Michael Allison voted ‘no’ to starting fall sports. Here’s why.
August 22, 2020
Hopewell principal Michael Allison is a former high school athlete and coach, the treasurer of the WPIAL and president of the Pennsylvania Principals Association.
PIAA ignores Gov. Wolf’s recommendation, allows fall sports to start Monday
August 21, 2020
High school football season starts Monday, along with soccer, cross country, girls volleyball and all other PIAA fall sports.
Allegheny County schools can play football under health department’s 50-person limit
The PIAA voted to allow high school sports to proceed on schedule. Allegheny County schools got a double dose of good news.
Sto-Rox hires Aliquippa’s Dwight Hines, all-time scorer Kerry Connolly as basketball coaches
After decades in red and black, Dwight Hines is embracing green energy at Sto-Rox.
PIAA set to make ‘biggest announcement’ regarding fall sports
August 20, 2020
The PIAA has been around for more than a century, and Friday’s decision surely ranks among its most debated.
Allegheny County Health Department offers to assist WPIAL with covid-19 restrictions
The WPIAL and Allegheny County Health Department will meet Friday to discuss plans for potentially playing high school sports this fall.
Health department restrictions could force Allegheny County football teams elsewhere
August 19, 2020
If there’s a high school football season this fall, teams from Allegheny County might play home games at stadiums in neighboring counties.
Quaker Valley halts team workouts after off-campus exposure to covid-19
August 18, 2020
Quaker Valley suspended all workouts by its sports teams after learning several athletes were exposed to covid-19 at an off-campus gathering, the school announced Tuesday.
PIAA wants to move forward with fall sports, executive director tells legislators
The PIAA wants to move forward with fall sports, executive director Bob Lombardi told state legislators Tuesday, citing favorable data collected by UPMC athletic trainers.
State’s health secretary says Gov. Wolf won’t mandate cancellation of high school sports
If the PIAA ignores Gov. Tom Wolf’s advice and allows fall sports to continue, his administration won’t turn his strong recommendation into a mandate.
State lawmakers question data used to recommend PIAA sports shutdown
August 17, 2020
Republican state lawmakers are questioning the specific data — or lack thereof — that Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration used to recommend shutting down youth sports this fall.
Freedom cancels football workouts over covid-19 concerns
Freedom administrators canceled football workouts for this week over concerns a player was possibly exposed to the coronavirus.
Kiski School will adopt bubble strategy to play sports
August 15, 2020
The NBA and NHL successfully used an isolation “bubble” to restart their sports, and now Kiski School will take that idea to the high school level.
PIAA ‘disappointed’ with answers in meeting with Gov. Wolf’s staff
August 14, 2020
In a word, Friday’s meeting with Gov. Tom Wolf’s staff was “uneventful.”
Gov. Wolf stands behind fall sports shutdown but says ‘I’m just one person’
August 13, 2020
Gov. Tom Wolf said he’s unlikely to change his recommendation to delay youth sports, no matter what the PIAA says, but described his role as “one person that has an opinion.”
WPIAL suspends Seton LaSalle assistant baseball coach for recruiting
August 12, 2020
A Seton LaSalle assistant baseball coach is facing a yearlong suspension for violating PIAA recruiting rules.
Summit Academy is 2nd WPIAL school to forgo fall sports
Summit Academy won’t play sports this fall, becoming the second WPIAL school to cancel athletics over covid-19 concerns.
State Rep. Mike Reese, Republican lawmakers take on governor on high school sports
August 11, 2020
A recommendation from Gov. Tom Wolf can easily turn into a mandate, said state Rep. Mike Reese, who wants the Legislature to act before that happens with youth sports.
As high school sports debate continues, Levine stands firm, Republicans plan legislation
August 10, 2020
State Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine stood firm Monday on delaying youth sports until next year, and two state legislators announced plans to join the debate over high school athletics.
WPIAL calls Gov. Wolf’s recommendation ‘uncalculated, inconsistent and unfair’
The WPIAL strongly supports playing high school sports this fall despite Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation they be postponed until January.
If PIAA shuts down, AAU teams, other private programs could flourish
August 7, 2020
Western Pa. Bruins basketball director John Tate jokes that his doctor recommends he eat fewer salt and vinegar chips. In many ways, he views Gov. Tom Wolf’s newest sports recommendation that same way.
PIAA delays fall sports for 2 weeks to talk with Gov. Wolf, state legislature
The PIAA heard “thousands of voices,” so it’s trying to save fall sports.
State legislator urges PIAA to keep high school sports in fall
The governor wants high school sports delayed until January, but at least one member of the state legislature disagrees.
Pittsburgh Public Schools plans to postpone fall sports in City League
August 6, 2020
Pittsburgh Public Schools announced plans Thursday to postpone fall sports in the City League, a move tied to the district’s decision to start classes exclusively online.
Gov. Wolf recommends high school sports be delayed until Jan. 1
With fall sports in the balance, will the PIAA treat Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation as a suggestion or a mandate?
Uncertainty remains for spectators hoping to attend high school games
August 5, 2020
New covid-19 guidelines for spectators at high school sporting events weren’t released Wednesday as many school administrators, coaches and fans had hoped.
Former WPIAL star Phil Jurkovec receives NCAA waiver, eligible at Boston College
August 4, 2020
Former WPIAL star quarterback Phil Jurkovec, who transferred from Notre Dame to Boston College in January, was granted an NCAA waiver Tuesday that makes him immediately eligible.
Central Valley’s Myles Walker commits to Akron
Central Valley’s Myles Walker, who celebrated a WPIAL football title last fall, committed Monday to Akron.
North Allegheny’s Nate Hoke commits to ‘dream school’ BYU, where dad played
Nate Hoke doesn’t promote himself on social media like many athletes his age.
Gov. Wolf: Online-only schools shouldn’t play sports this fall
August 3, 2020
Online classes await students at a number of schools this fall, but that wasn’t expected to keep their sports teams from competing.
Penn Hills could become 2nd WPIAL school to drop ‘Indians’ nickname
Penn Hills may become the second WPIAL school to drop its Indians nickname.
Patriot League school Lehigh ‘checked all boxes’ for Baldwin safety Connor Lavelle
Two of the colleges recruiting Connor Lavelle are about 15 miles apart in Eastern Pennsylvania, so he visited both on the same road trip.
WPIAL football recruits share written scholarship offers as Aug. 1 arrives
August 1, 2020
Now, it’s in writing.
WPIAL reveals 2 playoff formats with 8- or 4-team football brackets
July 31, 2020
The WPIAL revealed two football playoff options Friday, one if there are state playoffs this fall and another if they’re canceled in advance.
WPIAL delays start dates for fall sports
The WPIAL delayed the start date for most fall sports, a decision executive director Amy Scheuneman compared to a two-hour delay on a winter morning.
Start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely changing after board adopts ‘hybrid’ option
July 30, 2020
The start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely are changing.
PIAA emphasizes ban on spectators comes from Gov. Wolf — not PIAA
The PIAA released a statement Thursday emphasizing that the current ban on spectators at high school sports events was imposed by Gov. Tom Wolf — not the PIAA.
Some changes to fall sports timeline still on the table after PIAA meeting
July 29, 2020
Fall sports season might end earlier for some schools and start a little later for others.
No spectators allowed, according to new PIAA covid-19 guidelines
High school sports remain on schedule for the fall, but the new PIAA covid-19 guidelines approved Wednesday describe a season unlike any other.
Pa. health secretary: Data will guide state’s approach to high school sports
July 28, 2020
The PIAA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee strongly recommends starting high school sports on time, but Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine declined to endorse that decision Tuesday.
Central Catholic basketball transfer Langston Moses eligible for regular season, WPIAL says
July 27, 2020
Central Catholic transfer Langston Moses is eligible for next boys basketball season but ineligible to play in the postseason, the WPIAL decided Monday.
WPIAL finals at Heinz Field in question as PIAA considers shorter football season
The WPIAL might not use Heinz Field for its football championships this fall for multiple reasons.
Dayton extends 1st Division I offers to 3 WPIAL football recruits
Three WPIAL football players drew their first Division I offers from the same Ohio school.
Football coaches association optimistic PIAA starts on time, offers scenarios if delayed
July 26, 2020
The Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association shared nine different scenarios with the PIAA in recent weeks, each with a different start date for the fall season.
With allegations behind him, Nick Lackovich returns as Aliquippa boys basketball coach
July 24, 2020
This was more than a job opportunity for Nick Lackovich, who was rehired Thursday as Aliquippa’s boys basketball coach.
No locker rooms at halftime? PIAA readies sport-specific guidelines for fall
July 23, 2020
The PIAA will release sport-specific guidelines for teams, coaches and officials next week, a key step in the return-to-play process for high school athletics.
Central Catholic running back Eddy Tillman announces 1st Division I offer
July 22, 2020
Central Catholic running back Eddy Tillman, a 2,000-yard rusher last season, received his first Division I college offer this week.
Flipped? Condensed? Overlapped? Options aren’t ideal if PIAA seasons need altered
There are days when Aaron Albert coaches football in the morning, sprints to his real estate job for a few hours and then heads to the ballpark for evening baseball.
Trinity’s Courtney Dahlquist commits to Big South champion Campbell
July 21, 2020
The Campbell women’s basketball roster is dotted with players from North Carolina and Virginia down to Florida, fitting for a team in the Big South.
Pine-Richland wide receiver Eli Jochem adds 1st Division I offer
Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem, one of the WPIAL’s top receivers, announced his first Division I offer Monday from Fordham.
PIAA approves winter championship sites for next 4 seasons
July 19, 2020
Get your Hershey’s chocolate ready.
PIAA approves kicking game, scrimmage options for sub-varsity football teams
Middle school, junior high and junior varsity football coaches can eliminate kickoffs and punts this season, or turn their games into scrimmages, if they choose.
Heavily recruited Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon commits to Florida
July 18, 2020
At this time last summer, Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon didn’t have a single Division I football offer.
2 WPIAL rising sophomores add basketball offers from Minnesota
July 17, 2020
Minnesota women’s basketball coach Lindsay Whalen, a former Olympian and WNBA star, is recruiting two of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores.
Neighboring states delay fall sports, but PIAA says ‘our folks don’t want that’
Pennsylvania is surrounded on three sides by states that already have delayed the start of fall sports, a list New York joined late this week.
PIAA approves weight class reduction for wrestling from 14 to 13
July 16, 2020
PIAA wrestling is dropping weight.
PIAA moving forward with fall sports as scheduled
July 15, 2020
The PIAA won’t cancel or delay fall sports, for now.
2 WPIAL sophomores announce basketball offers from Marshall
July 14, 2020
Two rising sophomores in WPIAL girls basketball received Division I offers from the same school Tuesday.
Perry searching for new football coach after Rod Rutherford resigns
Perry football coach Rod Rutherford has resigned, leaving his alma mater searching for a replacement just weeks before the season starts.
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson becomes 3rd WPIAL senior committed to Liberty
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson visited Liberty’s campus on Independence Day weekend and saw some fireworks on the drive home.
Pitt, Penn State make the cut as Gateway’s Derrick Davis narrows his college options
July 12, 2020
Pitt and Penn State both made the cut Sunday as Gateway football star Derrick Davis narrowed his college recruiting options.
Avonworth tight end Trevor Faulkner commits to Air Force Academy
Avonworth rising senior Trevor Faulkner, who had more than a dozen Division I offers, committed Sunday to Air Force.
Pitt commit Nahki Johnson announces offer from national champion LSU
July 11, 2020
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson committed to Pitt last summer, but on Saturday night he announced an offer from the defending BCS national champion.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis ready to narrow college football offers to Top 7
The WPIAL’s top football recruit is getting closer to a decision.
A few more doors open for Black athletic directors as WPIAL tries to promote diversity
When Sto-Rox hired LaRoi Johnson as athletic director this summer, he used social media to thank those who had opened doors for him in his career.
Another neighboring state decides to delay high school football season
Another of Pennsylvania’s neighbors is delaying the start of high school football season.
Mt. Lebanon’s Ashleigh Connor adds 1st Division I basketball offer
July 10, 2020
Mt. Lebanon’s Ashleigh Connor, one of the WPIAL’s top rising juniors, announced her first Division I basketball offer Friday from Xavier.
Should high school teams follow professional, college sports and test for covid-19?
July 7, 2020
Coronavirus testing is being used by professional and college teams to restart their seasons, so why not high school sports?
Coronavirus pandemic could worsen WPIAL shortage of football officials
July 4, 2020
The WPIAL doesn’t have enough football officials, and the coronavirus pandemic could make the shortage worse this fall.
Athletes not required to wear face masks during workouts, state says
July 3, 2020
Pennsylvania’s athletes are not required to wear a face mask during workouts or competition, according to guidance provided Friday by Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration.
Return-to-football workouts expose those ‘slacking’ when schools closed
Central Catholic’s campus was closed for three months, cutting off access to the football team’s weight room, but most players found ways to stay in shape.
Face mask ‘gray area,’ county restrictions cause schools to cancel workouts
July 2, 2020
Must high school athletes wear face masks during workouts?
Adam Kaufman resigns as Moon boys basketball coach ‘to be a dad’
July 1, 2020
The coronavirus pandemic forced Adam Kaufman to slow down, stay home and spend more time with his family.
PIAA optimistic football season starts on time as some states delay their kickoffs
High school football season won’t start on time in neighboring New Jersey, but Pennsylvania has no plans to delay kickoff.
Woodland Hills halts sports workouts to re-evaluate covid-19 guidelines
Woodland Hills was the first WPIAL school to resume summer workouts, but the Wolverines halted those sessions this week to re-evaluate their covid-19 guidelines.
Shaler uses caution, sends football players home over covid-19 concerns
June 30, 2020
Choosing to take a cautious approach, Shaler coach Jim Ryan sent his football team home early from workouts Tuesday after learning a family friend of a player could have contracted covid-19.
Penn Hills hires former Seton Hill star Chris Giles as boys basketball coach
June 29, 2020
When Chris Giles found out he would be Penn Hills’ new boys basketball coach, he immediately shared the news with the coach he was hired to replace.
Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Spencer transforms from star QB to champion wrestler
It’s not uncommon for Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer to be heavier in the fall than in the winter, a transformation that takes him from standout quarterback to champion wrestler.
Trib HSSN looks back at the top high school sports stories of the 2019-20 school year
11.1.19
Report: West A’s Austin Hendrick signs $4 million contract with Cincinnati Reds
June 26, 2020
Former West Allegheny star Austin Hendrick signed with the Cincinnati Reds on Friday.
Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico resigns after 2 decades
Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico, who won a state title with the Big Macs, resigned this week after two decades with the team.
Sto-Rox hires football coach LaRoi Johnson as AD, opens coaching jobs
June 25, 2020
The Sto-Rox school board hired football coach LaRoi Johnson as athletic director Thursday night and voted to hand him a clean slate of coaches.
Wanting to keep family close, Justin Walther accepts Winchester Thurston basketball job
While searching for a boys basketball job, coach Justin Walther wanted a high school that would treat him like family, but just as importantly, a place he could share with his family.
Aliquippa seeks applicants to replace boys basketball coach Dwight Hines
The Aliquippa school board is accepting applications for a new boys basketball coach, a decision that stunned coach Dwight Hines, whose tenure appears to be over.
Serra Catholic hires A.J. Corso as boys basketball coach
Serra Catholic hired A.J. Corso to take over the boys basketball team, the school announced Thursday.
Radio station. Food truck. Dance studio? Jamal Woodson’s energy earns him Baldwin basketball job
June 24, 2020
Jamal Woodson isn’t wrong when he says he’s got an energetic personality.
2 Pa. football teams, 1 from WPIAL make MaxPreps preseason Top 100 rankings
June 23, 2020
Defending WPIAL champion Central Catholic was one of two Pennsylvania football teams ranked in the MaxPreps preseason Top 100.
Pine-Richland hires assistant Bob Petcash as boys basketball coach
June 22, 2020
Pine-Richland stayed in-house Monday night and hired assistant Bob Petcash as its new boys basketball coach.
WPIAL connections lead Gateway defensive back Shane Thrift to Delaware
Shane Thrift hasn’t visited Delaware’s campus yet, but he’s confident he’ll feel comfortable there.
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson identifies 9 finalists, wants to visit every campus
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson set out to pick eight finalists from his list of 30 college offers, but that task proved harder than expected.
Montour’s Jaiden Hill sticks with 1st Division I offer, commits to Liberty
June 21, 2020
Jaiden Hill’s first offer turned out to be his favorite.
Q&A with new WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman: Will there be fall sports?
June 20, 2020
As Amy Scheuneman points out, there was no coronavirus pandemic when she agreed to become the WPIAL executive director. While that’s true, she’s certainly not running from the challenge.
Noel Roach commits to Akron after talks with former Penn Hills teammate
June 19, 2020
Noel Roach couldn’t visit Akron’s campus, so the Penn Hills senior found other ways to learn about the school and its football program.
WPIAL plans Diversity Advisory Council to better represent minority communities
The WPIAL soon could have a Diversity Advisory Council, created to give a louder voice to the challenges faced by minority communities.
WPIAL eliminates football, basketball pairings meetings in cost-cutting move
June 18, 2020
The longstanding WPIAL playoff tradition that drew football and basketball coaches to a crowded hotel conference room is ending.
PIAA could rewrite co-op rule, making combined teams easier for schools
June 16, 2020
The PIAA could rewrite its co-op rule this summer, making it easier for two schools to form a combined sports team.
Woodland Hills leads WPIAL football back to practice with workouts ‘normal as any other’
Woodland Hills football coach Tim Bostard checked every player’s temperature and nobody was allowed to shake hands.
PIAA approves state football brackets; WPIAL can finalize its playoff plans
June 15, 2020
The PIAA approved state tournament brackets for all sports except basketball Monday, meaning the WPIAL soon can finalize plans for its football playoffs and championship games.
PIAA adopts 2-game suspension for unsportsmanlike actions including ‘racially insensitive comments’
The PIAA strengthened its stance against “ethnic and racially insensitive comments” by making those and other unsportsmanlike actions punishable with a two-game suspension.
Serra baseball star Mark Black commits to juco that produced Jose Bautista, Russell Martin
June 14, 2020
Serra Catholic baseball star Mark Black had his future mapped out way in advance, committing to St. John’s before his sophomore year, until the coronavirus pandemic turned the world upside down.
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3 more Division I offers
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson added three more Division I offers this week, pushing his overall total to about 30.
2-game suspension for foul language, physical contact among items on PIAA agenda Monday
The PIAA could give final approval Monday to a rule change that lets game officials issue a two-game suspensions to coaches and players who cross the line with foul language or make physical contact.
Big 33 plans ‘watch party’ to celebrate players chosen for canceled all-star game
The covid-19 pandemic forced organizers to cancel the Big 33 Football Classic, but this year’s players will be honored online.
PIAA reveals tentative state basketball brackets for 2021, ’22 postseasons
June 13, 2020
The WPIAL will send only four Class 6A boys basketball teams to the state playoffs next season, according to preliminary brackets revealed by the PIAA.
Freshman-year visit leads Sto-Rox linebacker Diontae Givens to Duquesne
June 12, 2020
As a freshman, Diontae Givens tagged along with Sto-Rox football teammates for an unofficial recruiting visit to Duquesne.
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick selected 12th overall by Cincinnati Reds in MLB Draft
June 10, 2020
With a quick left-handed swing that packs plenty of pop, West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick was naturally a Ken Griffey Jr. fan as a kid.
State releases covid-19 guidelines for restarting PIAA sports
Gov. Tom Wolf released covid-19 guidelines for restarting PIAA sports Wednesday, clearing the way for high school sports teams statewide to begin offseason workouts.
Will Austin Hendrick trade West Allegheny red for Cincinnati Reds in MLB draft?
June 9, 2020
Hot dogs with Skyline Chili and evenings at Great American Ball Park could be in Austin Hendrick’s future, if draft experts are correct.
Football coach Ryan Matsook returning to sidelines at Western Beaver
June 8, 2020
At Western Beaver, Ryan Matsook’s work duties already include assistant principal and athletic director.
Gov. Wolf: State will release covid-19 guidelines for PIAA in ‘next day or two’
The wait is almost over.
‘Position-less basketball’ draws Penn Hills’ A’Lysa Sledge to UMass Lowell
June 7, 2020
A’Lysa Sledge owns point guard skills and the size of a forward, a combination that lets her play every position on the floor for Penn Hills.
Indiana rising sophomore Eve Fiala draws Pitt basketball offer
Indiana’s Eve Fiala, who’s part of a talented 2023 WPIAL basketball class, added a scholarship offer Saturday from Pitt.
Sports might return sooner if schools prepare covid-19 plans now, PIAA says
June 5, 2020
The PIAA wants schools to use this downtime wisely.
Quaker Valley’s Bailey Garbee commits to American, turns teammates into rivals
Quaker Valley basketball teammates Bailey Garbee and Corinne Washington made college commitments this spring to separate schools, but they’ll still see one another at least a couple of times a year.
Covid-19 guidelines for PIAA sports won’t be ready this week
June 4, 2020
Athletes, coaches and high school administrators are growing impatient as more counties turn green, but they won’t see return-to-play guidelines for covid-19 until at least next week, according to a spokesman for the Pa. Department of Education.
Who were the PIAA football teams of the decade? MaxPreps ranks the Top 20
The most dominant high school football team in the state last decade wasn’t from Western Pennsylvania, but six WPIAL programs did make the list.
‘Sadness’ for athletes, coaches and alumni as Quigley Catholic closes doors
June 3, 2020
Where’s the rest of your team?
Kiski Area planning for fall sports season despite distance learning decision
Kiski Area’s superintendent announced plans to start next school year online, an approach other districts may adopt, but that doesn’t mean sports are canceled.
4 unanswered questions about PIAA sports, covid-19
June 2, 2020
Here are a few unanswered questions regarding PIAA sports and covid-19:
Penn State eliminated as Peters Township’s McMillon reveals Top 5
June 1, 2020
Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon eliminated Pitt and West Virginia a month ago, and now Penn State also disappeared from his list of college football destinations.
Iowa becomes 1st state to resume high school sports with baseball, softball
While Pennsylvania debates the future of fall sports, Monday was the first day of baseball and softball season for high schools in Iowa.
Will June be busy or quiet for 2021 WPIAL football recruits?
May 31, 2020
June can be a busy month for college football commitments, but will this year be different?
Concern about unsanctioned workouts grows as PIAA awaits guidelines from governor
May 29, 2020
Lawrence County has an abundance of grassy fields, without hash marks or end zones, and there’s probably kids throwing a football around on one.
Canon-Mac lineman Connor McMahon commits to ‘perfect school’ for hard work
May 28, 2020
Connor McMahon received a Naval Academy football offer on Memorial Day weekend and the timing didn’t go unnoticed by the Canon-McMillon junior.
PIAA in ‘holding pattern’ waiting for more information from governor
May 27, 2020
School districts in Lawrence and more than a dozen other Pennsylvania counties will soon enter the green phase, but the PIAA remains in a “holding pattern” waiting to hear what that means for high school sports.
Miniature Wash High gym showcases ‘underground hobby’ of paper stadiums
Trey Ashby never set foot inside Wash High’s basketball gym, but the Nebraska resident can describe the banners on the wall, the paint colors on the floor and the wooden seats that give the place its character.
WPIAL reveals 2021 baseball schedules with ‘long overdue’ 2-game section series
May 26, 2020
If a section opponent had a star pitcher, West Allegheny baseball coach Bryan Cornell always assumed his team would face him twice.
PIAA approves new classifications, divisions for competitive spirit
May 24, 2020
Competitive spirit, which became a PIAA sport eight years ago, will see some changes next season.
As Lawrence County transitions to green, football coaches eager to start workouts
May 22, 2020
Lawrence County is about to turn green, but the battery icon on Joe Cowart’s cell phone was trending toward red.
WPIAL reveals section schedules for 2020-21 basketball season
In WPIAL boys basketball, Butler vs. Pine-Richland has become one of the hottest section rivalries, with overtime finishes and single-digit margins driving up the drama.
Foul language, physical contact would earn 2-game suspension under PIAA proposal
May 21, 2020
The use of foul and vulgar language or physical contact with a PIAA game official, coach or opponent could become a two-game suspension for high school athletes and coaches.
PIAA board refers wrestling weight-class reduction to medical committee
The PIAA board referred a proposal to reduce wrestling weight classes to the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for discussion.
PIAA denies Lincoln Park appeal, forces boys basketball team to Class 4A
May 20, 2020
The Lincoln Park boys basketball team must move to Class 4A next season after the PIAA denied its final appeal Wednesday.
New coach Dan DeRose wants to win North Allegheny’s first WPIAL boys basketball title
North Allegheny has never won a WPIAL boys basketball title.
PIAA not ready to endorse NFHS guidelines for reopening high school athletics
The PIAA isn’t ready to endorse the return-to-sports guidelines issued Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
PIAA board says some teams may resume workouts next month, if governor approves
The PIAA board of directors unanimously supports a county-by-county approach to restarting high school sports, once the governor gives his approval.
National association issues detailed guide for reopening high school athletics
May 19, 2020
Players shouldn’t pass a basketball, hand off a football or share a baseball bat when high school sports workouts first resume, according to guidelines revealed Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
WPIAL adopts 2-game series for section baseball schedules, reveals realignment
May 18, 2020
The WPIAL adopted a revamped baseball schedule Monday meant to keep teams from pitching their ace twice against the same section opponent.
North Allegheny expected to hire Dan DeRose as boys basketball coach
Another high-profile WPIAL basketball coach is expected to switch schools this week.
PIAA board of directors to discuss restarting sports county by county
Could the PIAA take a county-by-county approach to restarting sports, or should the entire state resume summer workouts at the same time?
Dek hockey athleticism earns North Hills lineman 1st college football offer
May 17, 2020
At 6-foot-5 and around 230 pounds, North Hills’ Matt Hummel is bigger than most dek hockey players.
Air Force Academy football makes recruiting push into Western Pa.
Two military service academies have successfully recruited Western Pennsylvania football players for years. Combined, Army and Navy had seven former WPIAL athletes on their rosters last fall.
Pine-Richland’s Luke Miller wastes no time making commitment to Kent State
May 16, 2020
Pine-Richland junior Luke Miller didn’t need long to decide.
Thomas Jefferson linebacker Preston Zandier commits to Youngstown State
Not often does a university president get involved in football recruiting, but these are unusual times.
Trinity junior Courtney Dahlquist adds 2 college basketball offers
May 15, 2020
Trinity junior Courtney Dahlquist, who saw her season cut short by the coronavirus outbreak, added two college offers this week.
Coronavirus pandemic speeds up recruiting for Western Pa. Bruins girls basketball players
May 14, 2020
If this were any other spring, Corinne Washington would be traveling to Detroit this weekend with her Western Pa. Bruins teammates for an AAU basketball tournament in the Motor City.
WPIAL reveals new basketball sections for 2020-21 season
May 12, 2020
Central Catholic coach Brian Urso will use this stay-at-home time to binge watch some game film. He spent his first season at Central learning all about the boys basketball teams to the north and now will study Westmoreland County.
NFHS votes down shot clock mandate for high school basketball
May 11, 2020
High school teams can still hold the basketball for as long as they’d like.
Lincoln Park wants PIAA to define ‘participation’ in competitive-balance rule
Lincoln Park athletic director Mike Bariski is curious about the PIAA’s definition of the word “participation.”
PIAA won’t force Chartiers Valley, North Catholic girls into higher classifications
The Chartiers Valley and North Catholic girls basketball teams won’t be forced into a higher classification next season, the PIAA told the schools Monday.
North Allegheny’s Nathan Hoke adds 2 more Division I football offers
May 10, 2020
North Allegheny junior Nathan Hoke, the son of a former Steelers defensive lineman, added two more football teams to his growing list of Division I offers.
7 schools file PIAA appeal contesting competitive-balance rule promotion
May 9, 2020
Seven schools statewide, including three from the WPIAL, filed appeals this week with the PIAA, all hoping their basketball teams can avoid being promoted by the competitive-balance rule.
Baldwin fires girls coach Kyle DeGregorio after defeating state’s top-ranked basketball team
May 8, 2020
Exactly two months after Baldwin’s girls basketball team upset the No. 1-ranked team in the state, coach Kyle DeGregorio lost his job.
Justin Walther resigns at Serra Catholic, seeks big-school basketball job
If you’re a big-school athletic director, Justin Walther would like to talk.
Basketball coach Bill Sacco retires after 18 seasons at Cornell
May 7, 2020
Bill Sacco had already retired from teaching and coaching when he noticed Cornell was hiring a boys basketball coach and decided to apply.
WPIAL board member, retired school administrator Enrico Antonini dies
Enrico “Rego” Antonini, a member of the WPIAL board of directors and a retired Beaver County school administrator, died Tuesday. He was 81.
Baldwin hires 5-time WPIAL champion Jeff Ackermann as boys basketball coach
May 6, 2020
Until this week, Jeff Ackermann coached basketball at Pine-Richland, lived in South Fayette and taught at Chartiers Valley, a commute that saw him and his family crisscross the county.
PIAA forcing 3 WPIAL basketball teams into higher classification, pending appeal
May 5, 2020
Three WPIAL basketball teams will be forced to play in a higher classification next season unless those schools can win a PIAA appeal.
Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame postpones induction banquet to 2021
May 4, 2020
The Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame induction banquet will be postponed until next year, organizers announced Monday, in response to the covid-19 outbreak.
Could coach Jeff Ackermann turn around another basketball program in Baldwin?
Baldwin’s boys basketball team hasn’t won a WPIAL playoff game since 2003. The Highlanders reached the postseason only four times in the 17 years since, with four first-round losses.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington commits to Boston University
May 3, 2020
There’s a third Division I basketball player in the Washington household.
Woodland Hills’ Peyton Pinkney commits to Eastern Michigan after virtual tour
May 2, 2020
Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney took a tour of Eastern Michigan’s campus last week and never left her home.
Central Catholic football coaches deliver WPIAL championship rings door to door
What’s better than one WPIAL ring ceremony? How about 23?
Butler’s Ethan Morton named Player of the Year in Class 6A all-state voting
Butler’s Ethan Morton’s quest for a PIAA basketball title was cut short, but the senior earned statewide recognition Saturday as the state’s Class 6A Player of the Year in a vote of Pennsylvania sports writers.
Hotly recruited Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon names Top 10 list
May 1, 2020
Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon, who’s quickly become the WPIAL’s hottest football recruit, announced a top 10 list Friday that included Penn State but not Pitt or West Virginia.
Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal commits to Duquesne
Three years ago, Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal and her family took an unofficial recruiting visit to Duquesne before her freshman year of high school.
Mars’ Michael Carmody, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher earn all-state honors in Class 5A boys basketball
Mars’ Michael Carmody and Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher, whose teams clashed in the WPIAL boys basketball finals, were named first-team all-state Friday.
‘Size doesn’t matter’ as South Fayette’s Charley Rossi adds first Division I offer
April 30, 2020
Charley Rossi took a break from helping his dad clean out the garage Monday to return a phone call to a college football coach.
WPIAL lands 2 players on Class 4A boys basketball all-state team
Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Central Valley’s Isiah Warfield will play different sports in college, but right now they’re both all-state basketball players.
North Catholic’s DeGregorios share all-state honors in Class 3A boys basketball
April 29, 2020
Two months after celebrating a WPIAL basketball title, North Catholic’s Dave and Isaac DeGregorio are sharing some statewide recognition.
WPIAL approves new basketball sections; won’t reveal them yet
April 28, 2020
Basketball sections for next season are almost ready, but WPIAL players, coaches and fans must wait a little longer to see them.
All-state boys basketball: OLSH’s DiMichele, Spadafora, Rodriguez lead Class 2A team
OLSH junior Dante Spadafora and sophomore Jake DiMichele earned first-team all-state honors Tuesday, and the Chargers’ Mike Rodriguez was named the state’s top coach in Class 2A.
PIAA shouldn’t enforce competitive-balance rule, Lincoln Park basketball coach says
April 27, 2020
If the PIAA competitive-balance rule forces the Lincoln Park boys basketball team into a higher classification next season, coach Mike Bariski thinks that’s unfair.
All-state boys basketball: Cornell’s Kaden DiVito named Player of the Year in Class A
Cornell’s Kaden DiVito, who saw his senior season cut short two wins away from the PIAA finals, earned statewide recognition Monday as the Class A boys basketball player of the year.
Moon sophomore Reilly Sunday adds 5 Division I offers since late March
April 26, 2020
Social distancing hasn’t kept basketball scholarship offers away from Moon’s Reilly Sunday.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds Duquesne scholarship offer
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington, one of the WPIAL’s top juniors, added a scholarship offer Saturday from Duquesne women’s basketball coach Dan Burt.
Jeannette to pay sports officials despite cancellation of spring sports season
April 25, 2020
The PIAA canceled spring sports across the state, but Jeannette School District still will pay the officials scheduled to work its games.
WPIAL football has NFL draft streak that’s more than 2 decades long
April 23, 2020
The WPIAL has had at least one former player picked each year in the NFL draft since 1994, a remarkable streak that could be extended again this week.
Upper St. Clair football coach Jim Render among 12 selected for Pa. Sports Hall of Fame
Former Upper St. Clair football coach Jim Render, who retired last summer with the most wins in WPIAL history, was among 12 individuals chosen for induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame this fall.
All-state girls basketball: Ellis’ Natalie Jasper, Canevin’s Diajha Allen receive Class 2A honors
April 22, 2020
Ellis School junior Natalie Jasper and Bishop Canevin senior Diajha Allen, who led their teams deep into the playoffs, earned all-state honors Wednesday in Class 2A girls basketball.
All-state girls basketball: Rochester teammates share statewide honors in Class A
Rochester teammates Alexis Robison and Corynne Hauser, who repeated as WPIAL girls basketball champions, drew statewide recognition Wednesday by earning all-state honors in Class A.
All-state girls basketball: Mohawk’s Karly McCutcheon, Carlynton’s Jada Lee honored in Class 3A
April 21, 2020
Mohawk’s Karly McCutcheon and Carlynton’s Jada Lee, whose girls basketball teams met twice in the playoffs this winter, each earned all-state honors Tuesday in Class 3A.
All-state girls basketball: North Catholic’s Tess Myers, Kylee Lewandowski among 6 WPIAL players selected in 4A
North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski, who extended their team’s WPIAL title streak to four, shared first-team all-state girls basketball honors Tuesday in Class 4A.
Beaver Falls RB/LB Josh Hough commits to Syracuse
April 20, 2020
Beaver Falls junior Josh Hough, who saw his recruiting stock rise quickly in recent months, committed Monday to Syracuse.
Horse or no horse, Penn Hills football schedules scrimmage at Aliquippa
Jon LeDonne is taking his Penn Hills football team to Aliquippa to scrimmage at his alma mater’s stadium this fall.
Peters Township hires new coaches for boys, girls basketball teams
Peters Township filled two vacant coaching jobs Monday night by hiring Joe Urmann to lead the boys basketball team and Bob Miles to lead the girls.
All-state girls basketball: 8 WPIAL players, coach Tim McConnell earn statewide honors in 5A
Chartiers Valley teammates Aislin Malcolm and Megan McConnell earned first-team all-state honors along with Gateway’s Lexi Jackson as WPIAL girls basketball players dominated the statewide Class 5A vote Monday.
All-state girls basketball: NA’s Lizzy Groetsch, Spencer Stefko lead WPIAL’s 6A selections
North Allegheny junior Lizzy Groetsch and coach Spencer Stefko saw their PIAA girls basketball title hopes dashed by the coronavirus outbreak, but both earned statewide recognition Monday.
100 years ago, Pa. held its 1st state basketball tournament, but anniversary celebration on hold
March 19, 2020
Two thousand fans came to the Armory in State College to watch the first state basketball tournament in Pennsylvania high school history, a historic event from exactly 100 years ago.
Coronavirus outbreak could leave 6-figure dent in WPIAL budget
March 18, 2020
The coronavirus outbreak already has spring sports on hold indefinitely, but the WPIAL is bracing for off-the-field impacts as well from the unfolding pandemic.
Union lineman Aaron Gunn commits to Louisville
March 17, 2020
Union junior Aaron Gunn, one of the WPIAL’s top linemen, committed Tuesday to Louisville.
PIAA suspends chapter meetings for game officials until state reopens schools
The PIAA Officials Council has suspended all chapter meetings until Gov. Tom Wolf reopens schools, the PIAA announced in an email to Pennsylvania high school sports officials.
Former Baldwin AD Vince Sortino joining WPIAL administration as assistant to executive director
March 16, 2020
Former Baldwin athletic director Vince Sortino is returning to the WPIAL.
No guarantee spring sports are played, but WPIAL discusses ‘what if’ scenarios
The WPIAL board discussed contingency plans for spring sports season behind closed doors Monday, but “anything at this point is uncertain,” associate executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Future of spring sports season will be considered Monday by WPIAL board
March 13, 2020
The PIAA already postponed the end of winter sports season, but now spring sports might also be in danger.
Caught in limbo, WPIAL basketball teams wonder if delay turns into cancellation
Along with coaching basketball, Spencer Stefko teaches world cultures at North Allegheny, a job that has him studying the effects of a viral pandemic.
PIAA suspends basketball tournament, swimming championships for 2 weeks
March 12, 2020
The PIAA will reassess the coronavirus situation in two weeks, said executive director Bob Lombardi, and decide then whether to resume the winter sports championships.
Butler completes another crazy comeback, defeats Upper St. Clair in PIAA 2nd round
March 11, 2020
The question on everybody’s mind this week in Butler was: How is Ethan Morton’s injured ankle?
North Allegheny bans spectators from athletics events as coronavirus precaution
In response to coronavirus concerns, North Allegheny will ban spectators from attending all home sporting events until April 13, the school district decided Wednesday.
Girls basketball sites, times: North Allegheny, Bethel Park travel to Bellefonte for PIAA quarterfinals
WPIAL finalists North Allegheny and Bethel Park will play on the same floor Friday night, one after the other as part of a PIAA girls basketball doubleheader at Bald Eagle in Bellefonte.
Boys basketball sites, times: PIAA schedules quarterfinal doubleheader at Hempfield
The PIAA scheduled a boys basketball quarterfinal doubleheader Friday night at Hempfield involving two WPIAL Class A teams.
Mt. Lebanon says it won’t play PIAA tournament game vs. Eastern Pa. team because of coronavirus
Mt. Lebanon School District administrators, concerned about coronavirus, informed the PIAA that its boys basketball team wouldn’t participate in Wednesday night’s playoff game against Eastern Pa. opponent Cheltenham.
Scheduled to close, Vincentian Academy ends basketball season with emotional PIAA loss
This was the teary-eyed postgame talk that coach Tim Tyree dreaded, one that he and his Vincentian Academy players tried to delay for as long as possible.
‘Most spectators’ barred from Ohio high school events over coronavirus concerns; Conn. cancels tournaments
March 10, 2020
Facing concerns about coronavirus, state high school associations across the country are deciding whether to alter their postseason plans.
PIAA moves Butler-Upper St. Clair boys basketball game to Robert Morris
The PIAA has relocated the boys basketball playoff game between Butler and Upper St. Clair to Robert Morris’s UPMC Events Center.
PIAA says skip handshakes, but championships still on schedule despite coronavirus concerns
March 9, 2020
Elbow bumps could replace handshakes.
3 WPIAL indoor track athletes earn 1st-team PTFCA all-state honors
March 8, 2020
Indiana’s Kendall Branan, North Allegheny’s Casey Burton and Shaler’s Cam Mbalo earned first-team all-state indoor track honors from the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2nd-round girls basketball games
The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2nd-round boys basketball games
The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.
Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder delays knee surgery with PIAA 1st-round win
March 7, 2020
Andre Wilder is trying to postpone knee surgery one win at a time.
Back from injury, Josh Russell’s 3-pointers lift USC over Allderdice in PIAA 1st round
Upper St. Clair’s unofficial team motto was: “Let’s get Russ in uniform one more time.”
Sean Snead’s 3-pointers lead Obama past Penn Hills in PIAA 1st round
March 6, 2020
A first-half shot can’t be called a game-winner, especially one that only ties the score, but the energy from Sean Snead’s buzzer-beating 3-pointer was felt long after halftime.
WPIAL accepts apology, reduces suspension for Mars’ Michael Carmody
March 5, 2020
The WPIAL accepted senior Michael Carmody’s apology and reduced his suspension to one game, Mars athletic director Scott Heinauer said Thursday.
Mars’ Michael Carmody ‘remorseful, apologetic’ for WPIAL championship actions
March 4, 2020
Michael Carmody came to Green Tree on Wednesday asking for his two-game suspension to be reduced, but first he was there to apologize, said his father, Mars basketball coach Rob Carmody.
Mars’ Michael Carmody faces 2-game suspension for WPIAL championship actions
March 2, 2020
Mars senior Michael Carmody, one of Western Pennsylvania’s top athletes, faces a possible two-game WPIAL suspension for his actions in the Class 5A boys basketball championship.
3 WPIAL track athletes win state titles at PTFCA indoor championship
Indiana senior Kendall Branan was one of three WPIAL track athletes who won state titles Sunday at the PTFCA indoor championship at Penn State.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times for 1st-round games
March 1, 2020
The PIAA announced sites and times for first-round playoff basketball games.
PIAA announces boys basketball sites, times for 1st-round games
The PIAA announced sites and times for first-round playoff basketball games.
Butler tops Mt. Lebanon for WPIAL Class 6A title, team’s 1st since 1991
February 29, 2020
Ethan Morton waited four years for this celebration, but he had tears in his eyes knowing that his coach and his hometown had waited far longer.
Butler, Mt. Lebanon are familiar foes in WPIAL Class 6A championship rematch
Butler was in the locker room getting ready for its semifinal at Robert Morris’ new arena, but senior Ethan Morton tried to catch a little of Mt. Lebanon’s game ahead of theirs.
Star freshman Rodney Gallagher leads Laurel Highlands past Mars in WPIAL Class 5A thriller
February 28, 2020
There are 131,504 residents in Fayette County, and Rodney Gallagher might’ve hugged them all Friday night.
Mars’ Carmody, Laurel Highlands’ Gallagher share spotlight in WPIAL 5A final
One is a 290-pound senior signed to play football at Notre Dame. The other is a 150-pound freshman with Division I basketball offers.
North Catholic upends two-time defending champ Lincoln Park in Class 3A title game
February 27, 2020
Isaac DeGregorio sensed that the run was coming.
North Catholic seeks better shooting night in championship rematch with Lincoln Park
Nearly a year after the loss, North Catholic coach Dave DeGregorio forced himself to watch the video of his team’s WPIAL championship.
Butler rallies past USC in overtime, earns return trip to WPIAL finals
February 26, 2020
Doubt crept into Ethan Morton’s mind for a moment Wednesday night as Butler trailed by five with less than a minute left.
Mars’ Michael Carmody flexes muscles against Chartiers Valley, returns to WPIAL finals
February 25, 2020
Michael Carmody has already won two WPIAL basketball championships and contributed to both, but the Mars senior wasn’t responsible for leading the Planets to Petersen Events Center either time.
Baldwin assistant hired as Bishop Canevin’s 4th football coach in 4 years
Bishop Canevin has hired former Baldwin assistant Richard Johnson as football coach, the school announced Tuesday.
Lincoln Park earns 5th straight trip to WPIAL finals with whistle-heavy win over Aliquippa
February 24, 2020
Nobody wanted 56 fouls called, but nobody was too surprised, either.
WPIAL announces sites, times for basketball semifinals
February 23, 2020
The UPMC Events Center at Robert Morris will host a WPIAL basketball playoff doubleheader Wednesday.
Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson among nation’s best after TSTCA Indoor Championship
Mt. Lebanon senior Patrick Anderson ran one of the fastest 3,000-meter times in the nation this season at the TSTCA Indoor Championship Saturday at Edinboro.
Strong 2nd half carries Upper St. Clair past Pine-Richland, into semifinals
February 22, 2020
Maybe it is the team’s gritty style. Maybe it is coaching adjustments, or maybe it is just the names on the roster.
Laurel Highlands scores with 3.5 seconds left, stuns No. 1 Penn Hills in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 21, 2020
Laurel Highlands coach Rick Hauger called for a timeout, but the crowd was still raucous from Penn Hills’ game-tying 3-pointer.
South Allegheny uses buzzer-beater to defeat Beaver Falls, reach WPIAL semifinals
February 20, 2020
Bryce Epps wasn’t having his best shooting night, but suddenly a loose ball was at his feet.
West Allegheny hires Dave Schoppe as football coach
West Allegheny looked to its past to find its future head football coach.
Sheldon Cox leads New Castle to WPIAL 1st-round win against Mt. Pleasant
February 19, 2020
If he could’ve changed anything, Mt. Pleasant coach Allan Bilinskyh would’ve picked a gym with tighter rims.
22 WPIAL football players selected for PSFCA East-West Game
Two WPIAL quarterbacks, Seneca Valley’s Gabe Lawson and Baldwin’s Mason Stahl, were chosen to lead the West all-stars in the PSFCA East-West Game on Memorial Day weekend.
Senior-led Bethel Park tops North Allegheny, celebrates 1st playoff win since 2016
The similarities to two years ago had crossed their minds — same gym, same playoff round — but Bethel Park’s seniors made sure the similarities ended there.
WPIAL approves section alignments for winter sports, basketball must wait
February 18, 2020
The WPIAL released updated sections for some winter sports, but basketball won’t be ready for awhile.
WPIAL approves site, schedule change for cross country championships
February 17, 2020
The WPIAL cross country championships will return to Cal (Pa.) next fall with an overhaul to the race schedule.
WPIAL wrestling realignment takes geographical approach
The WPIAL board approved new wrestling sections Monday based more on geography and less on competitive balance.
North Allegheny’s Casey Burton holds No. 1 spot in state long jump rankings
North Allegheny’s Casey Burton ranks first in the state in girls long jump after winning the TSTCA indoor meet Saturday in Edinboro.
Chartiers Valley sophomore Aislin Malcolm receives Princeton offer
Chartiers Valley sophomore Aislin Malcolm, who hasn’t lost a game in two seasons, announced a college basketball offer Sunday from Princeton.
Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon announces Penn State offer
February 16, 2020
Add Penn State’s James Franklin to the growing list of college football coaches hoping to recruit Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon.
North Allegheny junior Khalil Dinkins adds Penn State offer
The college options for North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins jumped significantly this month with scholarship offers from Penn State and Michigan.
Dwindling number of high school officials part of troubling nationwide trend
February 15, 2020
As a high school basketball official in his early 20s, Joe Strednak wasn’t much older than the athletes on the court. Occasionally, someone would test his poise as the youngest ref on his crew.
WPIAL’s 2nd-leading scorer exits early as Aliquippa defense stops Steel Valley
Aliquippa had a strategy for facing the WPIAL’s second-leading scorer: Trap Steel Valley’s Camden Polak whenever he touched the ball, keep it out of his hands if possible and make him work for every shot.
10 WPIAL players selected for Big 33 Football Classic
February 12, 2020
Thomas Jefferson teammates Logan Danielson and Mac Duda were among 10 WPIAL players selected Wednesday for the Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL seeds Fox Chapel above Upper St. Clair despite late-season loss
February 11, 2020
More than two dozen times, Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer has traveled to Green Tree to see the boys basketball playoff brackets revealed.
Breaking down the 2020 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
Here is a breakdown of the 2020 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs:
Football coach Loran Cooley leaves Baldwin after 3 years for college job
February 10, 2020
Loran Cooley wants to become a full-time football coach once he retires as a Pennsylvania state trooper, a transition that’s not too far in the future.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel predict 2020 boys basketball playoff pairings
February 9, 2020
It’s that time of year, WPIAL bracketology 2020.
Pine-Richland schedules Week Zero football game in New Jersey
Twice, Pine-Richland’s football team used Week Zero to play out-of-state opponents from Ohio, and once the team faced a school from Florida.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020
February 8, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Western Pa.’s top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2021
February 5, 2020
If you wanted to spot some of the top college football coaches in the country, there was no need to fly to Clemson, S.C., or Ann Arbor, Mich.
WPIAL football recruits make commitments official on signing day
The addition of an early signing period in December has reduced the number of Division I recruits using the traditional early-February date, but a handful of WPIAL football seniors waited it out.
Quaker Valley defeats Blackhawk, creates 1st-place tie in unpredictable Section 2
February 4, 2020
The WPIAL’s wildest section won’t tame easily.
WPIAL approves 2 GCC transfers; Bailey Kuhns remains ineligible for basketball playoffs
February 3, 2020
Girls basketball standout Bailey Kuhns is immediately eligible to join Greensburg Central Catholic’s lineup, but the sophomore won’t be allowed to take part in the upcoming playoffs.
WPIAL finds no evidence of racial taunts in Leechburg-Propel Andrew Street game
The WPIAL found no evidence a Propel Andrew Street boys basketball coach was the target of racial taunts during a game last month, but Leechburg will take proactive steps anyway.
WPIAL to hold hearing for Leechburg basketball game, Greensburg CC transfers
February 2, 2020
The WPIAL wants to know why the Propel Andrew Street vs. Leechburg boys basketball game was cut short Jan. 17 and whether anyone in attendance used racially charged taunts.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 1, 2020
February 1, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 1, 2020
WPIAL rankings
WPIAL releases football schedules for 2020 season
January 30, 2020
The loudest complaints from WPIAL football teams were about travel and blowouts.
Central Valley trio announces 1st FBS offers from same MAC school
January 29, 2020
Central Valley teammates Ameer Dudley, Stephon Hall and Myles Walker celebrated a WPIAL football championship last fall at Heinz Field.
Gateway wideout Chamor Price adds 9th FBS offer this month
Gateway wideout Chamor Price had a breakout season last year and college coaches have taken notice.
PIAA rejects Quaker Valley wrestler Hunter Robison’s request to compete in postseason
Quaker Valley transfer Hunter Robison’s hopes to wrestle this season were dashed by the PIAA.
Butler clinches 1st boys basketball section title since 1992
January 28, 2020
Basketball coach Matt Clement was a junior on the team’s roster the last time Butler won a section title, but he watched Tuesday night as that 28-year wait finally ended.
Two-way Gateway football standout Tui Brown commits to UConn
Gateway senior Tui Brown, a two-way standout for the WPIAL champion, committed Sunday to UConn.
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump commits to Duquesne
January 27, 2020
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, who led the Jaguars to undefeated WPIAL and PIAA football titles, committed Monday to Duquesne.
Colgate football adds another recruit from Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Lebanon senior Evan Jones, an all-conference running back for the Blue Devils, announced his commitment Sunday to Colgate.
PIAA considers significant change for football heat acclimatization week
January 26, 2020
Heat acclimatization week might become a little more eventful for PIAA football teams.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 25, 2020
January 25, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 25, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Former WPIAL star recruits Montour lineman George Padezanin to Lehigh
Montour lineman George Padezanin committed Saturday to Lehigh, recruited to the Patriot League school by a former WPIAL football standout.
WPIAL, Philadelphia-area football teams separated under PIAA playoff proposal
January 22, 2020
MECHANICSBURG — The PIAA might move Pittsburgh and Philadelphia a little farther apart.
Aliquippa drops PIAA appeal, accepts promotion to Class 4A football
MECHANICSBURG — Aliquippa accepted its football team’s fate Wednesday and the school ended efforts to stay in Class 3A.
Quaker Valley transfer Hunter Robison remains ineligible to wrestle this season
January 21, 2020
Quaker Valley wrestler Hunter Robison, a talented midseason transfer from General McLane, might not suit up for the Quakers this season.
WPIAL rules GCC transfers Bailey Kuhns, Mark Mizerak ineligible
The WPIAL ruled a pair of Greensburg Central Catholic transfers ineligible Monday.
WPIAL will address Propel Andrew Street’s allegations of racial slurs by Leechburg in boys basketball game
January 20, 2020
The WPIAL board voted Monday to call in school administrators and boys basketball coaches from Propel Andrew Street and Leechburg to address allegations of racial slurs.
WPIAL reveals football conference alignment for 2020, 2021 seasons
The WPIAL has witnessed a decline in football attendance, so it took steps Monday to address those concerns.
Big 33 sees 3 alumni reach Super Bowl, extends streak to 54 years
January 19, 2020
The Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak continues with help from a former WPIAL athlete.
East Allegheny wide receiver Tyler Padezan commits to Duquesne
East Allegheny’s Tyler Padezan, who earned all-conference honors at wide receiver and defensive back, committed Sunday to Duquesne.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 18, 2020
January 18, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 18, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Important questions remain as WPIAL football realignment process continues
January 17, 2020
The WPIAL has already requested a weekend at Heinz Field for the football finals, but it’s too early to say which classifications will play their championships at the North Shore stadium.
Woodland Hills basketball showcase draws teams from 7 states for anti-violence event
High school basketball teams from seven states are headed to Woodland Hills this weekend for the Martin Luther King Weekend Stand Against Violence Showcase, a four-day event that features 41 boys and girls varsity games.
Butler football skips independent route, joins District 10 as associate member
January 16, 2020
District 10 accepted Butler’s football team as an associate member Wednesday after the WPIAL endorsed the move.
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick next WPIAL standout who could join MLB ranks
January 15, 2020
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick tells a story about hitting baseballs two years ago with Neil Walker, the former Pine-Richland player and first-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
WPIAL headed for minor, not major, football realignment
January 14, 2020
WPIAL football will have some smaller conferences and handpicked nonconference matchups next season, but schools don’t want a radical overhaul.
PIAA denies Aliquippa request to remain in Class 3A football
The PIAA competitive-balance rule seems particularly harsh on lower-income communities like Aliquippa, said athletic director Brandon LeDonne, where residents tend to be more transient.
Will Pirates use 1st-round pick on West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick?
January 13, 2020
West Allegheny baseball star Austin Hendrick, ranked as the top high school bat in the country, is expected to hear his name called early in this summer’s MLB Draft.
Shenango shot putter Emma Callahan ranks 1st nationally in indoor season
January 12, 2020
Shenango sophomore Emma Callahan climbed to the top of the national shot put rankings this weekend.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 12, 2020
January 11, 2020
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 11, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Short-handed Upper St. Clair uses ‘7 starters’ in victory over Bethel Park
With two starters out with injuries, Upper St. Clair could’ve easily explained away a lackluster effort Friday night, but the Panthers made sure that wasn’t necessary.
Charity basketball event draws out-of-state talent to Montour
January 10, 2020
The Winter Jamfest to End Domestic Violence, a five-game basketball showcase, will bring out-of-state talent to Montour’s gym Saturday.
West Allegheny football coach Chris Lucas resigns after 1 season
West Allegheny is searching once again for a new football coach.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis accepts invitation to Under Armour All-American Game
Derrick Davis hasn’t decided his college future yet, but he knows where he’ll be next January.
Quaker Valley wrestling adds transfer ranked 2nd in state
January 9, 2020
Sophomore wrestler Hunter Robison, who’s ranked second in the state, has transferred to Quaker Valley.
2 WPIAL football realignment proposals would cut down on travel
WPIAL football teams will play games closer to home next season, one way or another.
WPIAL football realignment: Small tweaks or major overhaul? Schools will decide
January 8, 2020
The WPIAL revealed two football realignments options Wednesday night, one that only tweaks the current format and another that would change the landscape drastically.
Ethan Morton’s triple-double leads Butler past rival Pine-Richland in OT
Ethan Morton’s 3-point shot wasn’t falling and Pine-Richland’s defense didn’t allow many layups, so Butler’s star prevailed instead with free throws.
Butler high jumper ranks 2nd nationally after TSTCA indoor opener
January 5, 2020
Butler high jumper Sami Taoufik started his TSTCA indoor track season Saturday with an early-season victory that has him ranked second nationally.
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2020
January 4, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2020
WPIAL rankings
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Coaches
The WPIAL awarded 48 football titles during the past decade and most of them went to the same 10 coaches.
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Defense
January 3, 2020
When the NFL playoffs arrive this weekend, three WPIAL defensive stars from the past decade will be in uniform, a testament to the football talent Western Pennsylvania produces.
Struggling Butler football program leaving WPIAL for independent schedule
Worried that years of losing will force its program to someday fold, Butler decided it won’t play WPIAL football next season and instead will put together an independent schedule.
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Offense
January 2, 2020
The 2010s were a record-setting decade for WPIAL football teams, with career, single-season and single-game record books rewritten more than once.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 29, 2019
December 28, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 29, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Class 2A all-state football: Avonworth’s Duke Johncour named Coach of the Year
Fresh off their team’s first PIAA championship appearance, two Avonworth players earned all-state honors Saturday and Duke Johncour was named Pennsylvania’s Coach of the Year in Class 2A.
Class 4A all-state football: 4 Thomas Jefferson players selected, Cherpak voted top coach
Thomas Jefferson’s quarterback, top running back, wide receiver and lineman all earned all-state honors Saturday, statewide recognition for winning WPIAL and PIAA titles with an undefeated 16-0 record.
Class 6A all-state football: Central Catholic leads WPIAL with 4 players
Central Catholic senior Jonathan Opalko twice made game-winning field goals in the playoffs and had a school-record 54-yarder in the regular season, kicks that earned him all-state honors Saturday.
Class A all-state football: West Greene’s Ben Jackson named Pa. Player of the Year
December 27, 2019
West Greene’s Ben Jackson became the first player in WPIAL history to rush for 3,000 yards in a single season, an achievement that earned him accolades this fall.
Class 3A all-state football: Central Valley leads WPIAL teams with 4 honorees
WPIAL champion Central Valley, which returned to the PIAA finals for the first time in five years, was rewarded Friday with four all-state selections.
Class 5A all-state football: Peters Township, Gateway, Moon claim multiple spots
WPIAL finalists Gateway and Peters Township combined Friday to fill five spots on the Class 5A all-state team led by Gators junior Derrick Davis, who was picked for the second consecutive year.
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019
December 21, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Western Pa. football recruits make official commitments during early signing period
December 18, 2019
The early signing period for Division I football recruits arrived Wednesday and high school seniors across Western Pennsylvania took to social media to reveal their official commitments.
Transfers will force Aliquippa football to Class 4A, pending appeal to PIAA
December 17, 2019
Aliquippa ranks among the smallest football schools in the WPIAL, with only four more boys than Jeannette and nine fewer than Shenango.
WPIAL denies Butler request to join District 10 in football
Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team asked to leave the WPIAL and join District 10, but that request was denied by the WPIAL board Monday.
Missouri wrestling champion Wyatt Henson eligible for WPIAL, PIAA tournaments
December 16, 2019
Waynesburg transfer Wyatt Henson, a Missouri state wrestling champion, was ruled eligible Monday for the WPIAL and PIAA tournaments this winter.
WPIAL executive director Tim O’Malley retiring, board promotes Amy Scheuneman
The WPIAL will have a change in leadership this summer.
North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan commits to Patriot League football
North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan, an all-conference defensive end, has committed to Lehigh.
Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani follows high school connections to Albany
December 15, 2019
Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani will play college football for a coach who knows his high school very well.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis named TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year
With nearly 30 college scholarship offers, Gateway’s Derrick Davis admits he’s had to look back through his Twitter timeline just to remember them all.
Undefeated state champions, record-setting rusher among Trib 25 football all-stars
December 14, 2019
The WPIAL crowned six more champions this season, each with a unique story to tell. There was an undefeated state champion who celebrated win No. 16 in Hershey and a running back from Greene County who became the first to 3,000 yards.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for week of Dec. 15, 2019
Boys
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 15, 2019
Class 6A
PCN will re-air Pine-Richland’s snowy 2003 PIAA football final
December 12, 2019
The images are among the most iconic in PIAA football championship history.
WPIAL survey results: Schools favor 6 playoff brackets, mixed on realignment approach
The WPIAL’s football survey produced mixed results on some topics, but a clear majority of schools want to keep six separate playoff brackets.
PIAA could force Aliquippa football to Class 4A under competitive-balance rule
December 11, 2019
Add Aliquippa to the list of football teams that might be forced into a higher classification next season.
Influential WPIAL administrator Charles ‘Ace’ Heberling dies
December 9, 2019
Charles “Ace” Heberling, who directed the WPIAL for more than two decades and is credited with making the league what it is today, died Monday. He was 94.
Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon adds 2 offers as NCAA coaches enter contact period
High school football players are in the midst of a two-week contact period on the NCAA recruiting calendar, a 14-day span that’s kept WPIAL juniors busy.
Gateway sophomore Patrick Body adds first Division I football offer
Gateway sophomore Patrick Body made two of the Gators’ most important catches in the playoffs and was rewarded this week with his first Division I college offer.
WPIAL leading receiver David Pantelis announces offer from Duquesne
December 8, 2019
As the WPIAL’s leading receiver, Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis earned the attention of WPIAL defensive coordinators all across Class 5A.
Wyoming Area’s late rally stuns Central Valley in PIAA championship
December 7, 2019
HERSHEY — Momentum might be a myth to some, but Central Valley believes in it wholeheartedly.
Going up? PIAA could force Southern Columbia, others into higher football classification
Southern Columbia has no equal in Class 2A football, a lesson Avonworth learned Friday.
Southern Columbia routs Avonworth in record-setting PIAA championship
December 6, 2019
HERSHEY — Avonworth’s Park Penrod and Trevor Faulkner connected for an electric 43-yard touchdown pass on the opening possession Friday, and for more than 4 minutes, the Antelopes led the state championship.
Thomas Jefferson dominates Dallas, celebrates 4th PIAA title
December 5, 2019
HERSHEY — Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak had coached 24 seasons, won seven WPIAL titles and celebrated three state championships before this year.
Avonworth will ‘relish’ underdog role against 9-time PIAA champion Southern Columbia
Avonworth coach Duke Johncour acknowledges the apparent mismatch his football team is walking into Friday when the Antelopes make their first state championship appearance.
Thomas Jefferson sees ‘mirror image’ in state championship opponent Dallas
December 4, 2019
Instead of heading home after last week’s semifinal win, Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak and a few assistants drove two hours from Hollidaysburg to Danville to watch Dallas win the other state semifinal.
Ambridge basketball coach Mark Jula retires week before season opener
December 2, 2019
Ambridge boys basketball coach Mark Jula started to question his passion for the job, so he retired a week before the season opener.
Central Catholic loses in overtime to nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep
November 30, 2019
ALTOONA — Nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep needed overtime Saturday to defeat Central Catholic, 31-24, but the WPIAL champion didn’t leave Mansion Park Stadium satisfied with just coming close.
Fast start leads Thomas Jefferson to PIAA semifinal victory over Lampeter-Strasburg
November 29, 2019
HOLLIDAYSBURG — After an 11-year wait, Thomas Jefferson is finally headed back to Hershey, but there wasn’t much suspense in the victory that made it happen.
Central Catholic ‘not awestruck’ by nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep
National rankings list St. Joseph’s Prep as one of the best high school football teams not only in Pennsylvania but in the entire country.
Gateway star Derrick Davis ‘game-time decision’ as Gators draw rematch with Archbishop Wood
November 27, 2019
Archbishop Wood had a four-star recruit two years ago when the Philadelphia Catholic League power walloped Gateway in a lopsided state championship game.
Thomas Jefferson, Belle Vernon lead Big Eight all-conference with 8 players each
Conference champion Thomas Jefferson had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in the Big Eight, and quarterback Shane Stump was named Offensive Player of the Year in a vote of coaches.
Central Valley tops Tri-County West with 11 all-conference selections
Beaver Falls running back Josh Hough and Keystone Oaks quarterback Logan Schrubb shared Offensive MVP honors in the Tri-County West in a vote of conference coaches.
Burgettstown tops Three Rivers all-conference with 9 on 1st team
Burgettstown completed its second consecutive undefeated regular season and was rewarded by Three Rivers coaches with nine players on the all-conference first team.
Clairton’s Brendan Parsons, Jeannette’s Justin Cramer lead Eastern all-conference team
Clairton and Jeannette, the top two teams in the Eastern, had 19 players combined earn first-team all-conference honors in a vote of coaches.
West Greene record-setter Ben Jackson leads Tri-County South all-conference
West Greene running back Ben Jackson, who became the first WPIAL rusher to top 3,000 yards in a season, was among the players recognized by coaches in the Class A Tri-County South.
Undefeated Avonworth earns 14 spots on all-conference 1st team in Allegheny
Undefeated conference champion Avonworth dominated the all-conference voting this season by claiming 14 of the available 28 first-team spots.
Cornell, Laurel sweep individual awards on Big 7 all-conference team
Cornell earned a share of the Big Seven title and a home playoff game for only the second time in school history, accomplishments that shaped all-conference voting.
WPIAL bans West Mifflin from 2020 football playoffs for using ineligible player
November 25, 2019
The West Mifflin football team used an ineligible player all season, so the Titans are banned from the postseason next year, the WPIAL decided Monday.
Gateway wins field-position battle with Peters Township for 7th WPIAL title
November 23, 2019
Gateway didn’t score a point in the final 20 minutes Saturday night, but ultimately they didn’t need any.
Gateway, Peters Township big-play offenses will test 5A’s stingiest defenses
Gateway’s Derrick Davis can take a screen pass to the end zone at any time, and Peters Township’s Josh Casilli is just as dangerous with the football in his hands.
Thomas Jefferson finally clears Cathedral Prep hurdle
November 22, 2019
The referee held his hands only a few inches apart.
WPIAL Class 5A football final primer: Gateway vs. Peters Township
WPIAL Class 5A championship
WPIAL survey asks: Should every football team make the playoffs?
Would you be interested in every WPIAL football team making the playoffs?